Dhankuta, May 27 -- Residents of areas likely to be displaced by the proposed Saptakoshi high dam have demanded a halt to its construction, citing fears of forced displacement and loss of livelihood.

The locals have intensified their call since the initiation of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) process of the project.

A struggle committee has been formed to campaign against the project, calling for its complete cancellation. The committee argues that the dam threatens homes, farmland and the cultural identity of indigenous communities.

Protesters recently submitted a memorandum to the Chief District Officer, warning of a crisis to their very existence.

The locals claim that the dam would ...