A meeting of locals of Basantapur, contractors and the Kathmandu Metropolitan authorities finally reached an agreement to shift the night market at the Basantapur Durbar Square to another location, which was evacuated following the report submitted by an observation committee that the market violated terms of the contract. The Kathmandu Metropolitan City had shut down the market, acting on the request of the locals who claimed that vendors, who ran all kinds of shops and businesses in the area, not only spoilt the image of the Square but also created public nuisance leaving inadequate space for commuters and vehicles.

Moreover, the contract allowed the vendors to sell local handicrafts and other artefacts which

would have helped promote Nepali art and culture. Basantapur Durbar Square, which also falls under the protected monument zones listed by the UNESCO, is one of the major tourist attractions in the Kathmandu Valley. The Metropolitan authorities, in the first place, should not have allowed the area to thrive as a market place. The fact that Kathmandu Metropolitan City was not able to check activities that were detrimental to tourism industry for the

past seven years speaks volumes. Regular management of the activities in the area would not have necessitated an unpopular decision. KMC should ensure that the vendors are not deprived of their means to earn a livelihood.