Kathmandu, July 8

Reconstruction of the historical Balgopaleshwor temple in Ranipokhari is in full swing and is expected to be completed by Bhai Tika (November 1).

The iconic structure of Balgopaleshwor temple, which stands in the middle of Ranipokhari, was damaged in the devastating earthquake of April 25, 2015.

An immediate action plan developed by the government has set the target of completing the reconstruction of Ranipokhari by November 1. The temple is open to the public only on Bhai Tika and during the Chhath festival.

The reconstruction project is being carried out by the Office of Kathmandu Metropolitan City in coordination with National Reconstruction Authority.

According to KMC, the process of draining out water from the pond has almost been completed and the process of fencing its premises is under way. The fish in the pond have been shifted to Balaju Park.

The government has entrusted Worldwide Kandel KNKG JV, a construction company, with completing the Rs 120 million project.

President Bidhya Devi Bhandari had inaugurated the Ranipokhari reconstruction campaign on January 16.

KMC has already developed a design as approved by the Department of Archaeology for reconstruction of Ranipokhari, which after facelift will have a lush green cover, a musical fountain, walking trails, pavements, benches and resting platforms.

Gardens and open spaces will also be available for physical exercise, meditation and sports activities like table tennis and basket ball. Likewise, the musical fountain installed in Ranipokhari during the 18th SAARC Summit at the cost of Rs 35 million will be regularly maintained and operated every evening.

The park will remain open round the clock. Opening the site to public is expected to help KMC generate revenue. However, KMC has yet to fix the entry fee for visitors.

KMC officials said the temple, commissioned by King Pratap Malla in 1670 to console his queen, who was bereaved of their son, would be rebuilt without losing its originality.