By Dipesh Shrestha: Nepal Residents of Gaur, a border town in Nepal’s Rautahat district, have raised serious concerns over ongoing embankment construction near the Indo-Nepal border, accusing Indian authorities of heightening flood risks under the pretext of repair and maintenance work.

According to local residents, construction activities are underway east of the Gaur Customs Office, where the embankment is reportedly being elevated and siphon outlets sealed. Locals fear that these modifications will obstruct natural water drainage and once again submerge Gaur during the upcoming monsoon season.
Residents argue that international norms prohibit the construction of permanent physical structures within the “No-Man’s Land” (Dasgaja area) along the border. However, citing local resident Prem Chandra Jha, journalist Dipesh Shrestha told GNN that embankment construction and upgrading work is being carried out approximately 30–40 meters from the Dasgaja boundary.

“Under the guise of maintenance, the embankment is being raised further and even the siphon is being sealed. This will block water outflow and certainly lead to another devastating flood in Gaur,” said social activist Mohammad Azad of Rautahat.

Azad further alleged that despite informing concerned authorities — including the ward chairperson, the mayor, the District Administration Office, and the Armed Police Force — no concrete action has been taken.

“We notified all relevant bodies, but none showed serious concern. We feel increasingly vulnerable,” another local resident said.

Locals warn that unless the construction work is immediately halted, Gaur could face severe flooding once again in the coming monsoon. They have also accused government agencies and political representatives of maintaining silence over the issue.

An official response from the concerned authorities is still awaited. Meanwhile, residents are demanding an urgent on-site inspection, an immediate suspension of the disputed construction activities, and a long-term solution to prevent recurrent flooding in the region.