Ranipokhari reconstruction nears completion

Kathmandu, Aug 28

The Ranipokhari Reconstruction Users' Committee (RRUC) said on Friday that the reconstruction of the historic pond was at the final stage.

Briefing the Minister of State of the Ministry of Urban Development Rambir Manandhar and Mayor of the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Bidya Sundar Shakya, chairperson of the RRUC Ajay Sthapit said that about 85 per cent reconstruction work on the pond had completed.

"The pond construction has been completed while temple rebuilding and beautification work have achieved 85 per cent progress. We are continuing the work even during the lockdown and aim to complete it at the earliest," he said.

The minister and the mayor on Friday made a field inspection of the reconstruction of the historic pond, constructed by Pratap Malla four centuries ago, at the centre of the Capital.

The RRUC is preparing to inaugurate the heritage immediately after the coronavirus pandemic is contained.

Sthapit thanked the metropolis for its support in forming the RRUC and other necessary supports during the rebuilding process. A committee represented by chairmen of KMC ward no. 1, 27 and 28 is monitoring the reconstruction works.

Minister of State Manandhar said that the completion of the pond would be a moment of pride since it was not only the historical heritage but also the monument of culture and symbol of love.

"It gives me immense pleasure to see the work nearing the completion of the restoration of the heritage. This pond is an example of love to the world," he said.

Mayor Shakya expressed that the restoration work had moved ahead without any dispute after the formation of the RRUC.

The restoration work was started about one and a half years ago. Although it should have been completed within eight months from the commencement of the work, attention to the details like the arts and black mud created obstacles to the smooth progress.

Secretary of the RRUC Roshan Tuladhar said that the efforts were made to maintain the originality of the Kathmandu city at the Ranipokhari. The pond is restored at the cost of Rs. 95.4 million while Rs. 150 million has been allotted for Balgopaleshwor Temple reconstruction and beautification work.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 29 August 2020.