Kathmandu— The Birendra International Convention Centre, a landmark built with Chinese support in 1993 and once a hub for national events, has deteriorated into a junkyard following a 2025 Gen Z protest, sparking local activism for its restoration as a community asset and heritage site.

Heritage Activism Gains Momentum

Local residents in Baneshwor have initiated grassroots efforts to preserve the BICC, emphasizing heritage activism as a slow but steady approach to prevent further decay. Sunil Upadhyay, a Baneshwor resident, stated, "We are open to activities such as voluntary sanitation campaigns and activation programs for security," highlighting community-driven solutions.

Deepak Thapa, president of Thapagaun Sudhar Samiti, described the current state of the venue as alarming, noting, "People who come across the building witness a rusty heap of vehicles from the cracked wall and somewhere the heap is too high; it is easily visible; that constantly urges for rescue treatment as soon as possible."

The local movement aligns with academic definitions of heritage activism, as cited by Uprety and Shrestha (2020), which emphasizes grassroots efforts to protect threatened heritage sites.

Community Vision for Public Space

Residents envision the BICC as a revitalized public space, including morning walk trails, weekly markets, and a playground for children. Goma Baral, a local activist, questioned, "What is going on for the reestablishment of the place? What are the tasks, and where is a task planned?"

The community has engaged with Dharmaraj Khadka, Executive Director of the Special Structure Operation and Management Development Committee, who acknowledged the need for immediate actions such as evicting unauthorized occupants and securing public property. Khadka noted, "The vision is not practical at the moment since the place requires other immediate actions such as eviction of unauthorised occupants, security of the public property and removal of scrapped vehicles."

A weekly sanitation program has begun, though Subhadhra KC reported, "With limited resources of cleaning tools, the process of sanitation gets difficult, and restoration of previous glory seems a long way."

Green and Sustainable Restoration

Educator Niraj Tamrakar advocated for a green resolution, proposing the appointment of a local resource person to bridge communication between authorities and residents during the restoration process. He emphasized the need for socio-economic and environmental benefits from the venue's revival.

The BICC, once a venue for weddings, concerts, and award ceremonies, holds deep cultural significance for Baneshwor residents. Its decline has left a void in community life, with locals expressing concern over its potential permanent deterioration.

The community's efforts reflect a broader push for sustainable urban growth, integrating heritage preservation with public access and environmental considerations.

Residents continue to advocate for urgent action, with the BICC standing as a symbol of both lost potential and the community's determination to reclaim its heritage.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.