Kathmandu. Small Town. Too Many People.

Kathmandu. Small Town. Too Many People

I think I'm going to Katmandu
That's really, really where I'm going to
If I ever get out of here
That's what I'm gonna do
K K K K K Katmandu
I think that's where I'm going to
If I ever get out of here
I'm going to Katmandu

Bob Seger (Kathmandu)

I guess that if Bob Seger, who sang 'Kathmandu' back in 1970's, showing his will to come to Kathmandu, would now find that this town is half not as lovable a town as it was then.

Back in the 70's the town had less than two hundred thousand people (or 150402 according to 1971 census). Now the number of heads (assuming all people have heads) must be close to two million if not less. With an estimated population density of 16000+ in 2006, which must be more higher now, the population density in one of the highest in South Asia or the world. In some of the busiest areas in Kathmandu, the density could be 2-3 times higher. You can almost hear the people breathing in the crowd. And it ain't fun hearing strangers breathe as you walk by.

And the sad part is that its not always the people going for work or as such. Most times its just the people on the strikes or the "julus". And then there are people just roaming with no purpose at all. Other times its the never ending queues for gases and oils. Once they start moving there's more trouble. Over two hundred fifty thousand two-wheelers in a small city, and their smokes & noises is more than enough to choke people out.

But then its Kathmandu! Even with all the mess going around, its the best of the lot out here. That's why you can't leave it - I guess.