The Long Walk To Kathmandu: Rain, Blisters, And Heavy Debt
Summary
More than 300 people affected by microfinance loans and metre-interest lending have walked for 10 days from Hariban, Sarlahi to Chitwan and onward toward Kathmandu, demanding loan waivers and removal from blacklists. Many are barefoot, suffering from blisters, and say they will not return without a government response.
Key Points
- Over 300 people have marched from Hariban, Sarlahi to Chitwan under the Nagarik Bachau Mahaabhiyan, heading toward Kathmandu.
- The marchers say microfinance and metre-interest loans have pushed their debts far beyond the original loan amounts.
- They are demanding loan waivers, removal from blacklists, and implementation of a 12-point agreement.
- Many participants are travelling barefoot in monsoon rain and sleeping in temples and dharamshalas along the way.
