Kathmandu— Four historic ponds in Janakpurdham Sub-Metropolitan City, Nepal – Dhanush Sagar, Ram Sagar, Bishahara, and Ratna Sagar – are slated for conservation and beautification with an investment of approximately Rs. 650 million (roughly $5.8 million USD). The project, proposed by the Project Implementation Unit of the National Resilience and Livelihood Improvement Project under Nepal’s Ministry of Infrastructure Development, will utilize loan assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to restore these sites which hold religious, cultural, and environmental importance for both local residents and tourists. Janakpurdham officials say the initiative aims to boost tourism, protect the environment, and enhance the city's aesthetic appeal by reviving its cultural heritage.

Project Goals and Funding

The restoration project is being spearheaded by the Janakpurdham Sub-Metropolitan City in collaboration with the National Resilience and Livelihood Improvement Project. The funding, secured through a loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), will be used to address environmental concerns, promote tourism, and improve the overall appearance of the city. Mayor Manoj Kumar Sah emphasized that the programme will prioritize both cultural preservation and ecological protection.

Community Input and Environmental Assessment

A public hearing was recently held at each of the four pond sites to gather feedback on a proposed Initial Environmental Examination (IEE). Local stakeholders stressed the importance of environmental safeguards during construction, suggesting measures such as tree planting, careful material storage, and minimizing noise and dust pollution. Participants also requested that the restoration work respect the ponds’ original religious and cultural character and incorporate local community needs. ADB consultant Kul Bhushan Sharma assured attendees that the historical significance of the sites would be maintained throughout the repair and restoration process.

Comprehensive Restoration Plans

The project encompasses repairs to both the ponds themselves and associated heritage structures, with a focus on creating more attractive, functional, and environmentally friendly spaces. Authorities plan to consider suggestions gathered during the public hearing as they finalize plans for each pond – Ratna Sagar, Ram Sagar, Dhanush Sagar, and Bishahara – ensuring that religious, cultural, social, and environmental aspects are all integrated into the restoration efforts.

In addition to the pond restoration, a tender worth Rs. 1.65 billion (approximately $14.7 million USD) has been issued for road and drainage construction in Janakpurdham as part of the first phase of this broader infrastructure improvement project; bids are currently under evaluation.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.