Nepal government proposes mandatory waste segregation and free legal aid

The Government of Nepal is advancing two significant legislative measures in the House of Representatives. Infrastructure Development Minister Sunil Lamsal announced plans for the Waste Management Bill, 2026, which aims to make waste segregation at the source mandatory. Under this proposal, households that do not segregate waste will face a suspension of collection services. The plan includes introducing three-chambered collection vehicles and establishing local waste-processing facilities, such as material recovery, compost, and incineration plants, to achieve a “zero waste” goal.

Simultaneously, lawmakers are debating the Free Legal Aid Bill, 2083. Law and Justice Minister Sobita Gautam presented the bill to ensure citizens can access justice regardless of economic status. During discussions, members of parliament raised concerns regarding service quality, the need for clear eligibility criteria, and the potential for digital integration through mobile apps. Some representatives suggested mandating pro-bono hours for senior advocates, while others cautioned against creating unnecessary administrative burdens or using the system for political recruitment.