KATHMANDU, MAY 26

Stakeholders have emphasised the indispensability of heritage protection in Nepal's tourism development and preservation of its unique identity.

They have highlighted the need to view the conservation and restoration of heritages from a distinct perspective, separate from the development and preservation of other sectors.

At a programme organised by the Nepal Heritage Society (NHS), stakeholders emphasised the profound significance of Nepal's cultural heritage and the urban heritage of Kathmandu as integral facets of our national identity.

They earnestly urged all individuals to allocate appropriate attention towards establishing and acknowledging this identity.

Addressing the programme, Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City Chiri Babu Maharjan underscored the significance of conserving the tangible, intangible, and natural heritages within the urban areas. With growing apprehension regarding the recent decline of these heritages, Mayor Maharjan stressed the need for collaborative efforts for heritage conservation to safeguard the nation's identity and foster its prosperity.

'The subject of heritage is distinct from the concept of other developments. For this reason, it is imperative that the federal, provincial, and local governments align their thinking accordingly. Failing to do so may result in the potential destruction of our heritage,' he said.

Ambika Shrestha, chairperson of the Nepal Heritage Society, and a prominent figure in the tourism industry, highlighted the collective initiative and responsibility required for heritage conservation.

She mentioned that heritage sites are shared assets of the community, and emphasised the need to preserve the invaluable legacies left by our ancestors and transfer them to future generations through conservation efforts.

'The development of tourism is essential for Nepal's economic growth. In order to foster tourism development, the preservation of heritage holds immense significance.

Therefore, it is imperative for everyone to unite and actively participate in the conservation of Nepal's heritage for the benefit of its tourism sector,' she stated.

Informing that various programmes have been organised by the society on the occasion of World Heritage Day, Dharmaraj Shakya, vice-chairperson of Nepal Heritage Society, highlighted the necessity of raising awareness about heritage conservation during these events.

Prakash Darnal, secretary-general of the society, shared information about honouring and recognising various institutions and individuals who have provided support for heritage conservation during the programme.

A version of this article appears in the print on May 27, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.