Valley
Ranipokhari undergoes renovation for first time
For the first time since its construction over three hundred years ago, Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has started renovation work at Ranipokhari, the historic pong located at the heart of the city.Anup Ojha
For the first time since its construction over three hundred years ago, Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has started renovation work at Ranipokhari, the historic pong located at the heart of the city.
Water is being pumped out of the pond for rebuilding purposes of the Yamaleshwor temple which was severely damaged by the massive earthquake last year.
Besides the pond and the picturesque white temple, fishes were a major attraction for visitors in the area. However, it is not yet known where the fishes would be relocated once the water is completely pumped out.
According to KMC officials, the fishes are likely to be left in Trisuli river. “Initially we had planned to take the fishes to Balaju Baisdhara pond, but there is danger of local fishes eating them up,” said Chief and Executive of KMC Rudra Singh Tamang.
Tamang said the fishes of the pond will not be sold since it has cultural value. He added that valuable items discovered from the pond will be kept at Chhauni Museum under the supervision of the Department of Archaeology.
President Bidhya Devi Bhandari on January 16 had inaugurated the national reconstruction campaign from Ranipokhari amid a function.
The overall renovation is set to be completed by September 19. The National Reconstruction Authority has allotted Rs 120 million for the project. “We want to make Ranipokhari another iconic site for the commoners,” said Tamang. The renovated Ranipokhari will have musical water fountains, decorative fishes, a garden and a café. The adjoining Ratnapark, to the south of Ranipokhari, has also been given a facelift recently. The KMC spent Rs 8 million to renovate the park.
Late King Pratap Malla in 1670 built Ranipokhari to console his queen who was heartbroken following the death of their son.