Kathmandu, November 27

Reconstruction of the historic Rani Pokhari located in the heart of the capital city been expedited with the goal of completing it by mid-May 2020.

Works like laying black soil, constructing the wall and rebuilding the Balgopaleshwar temple situated in the middle of the pond have been speeded up.

The reconstruction works have been sped up after the National Reconstruction Authority was given the responsibility of reconstructing this heritage site, which was completely destroyed by the 2015-earthquakes.

Reconstruction of various structures at this site including the Balgopaleshwar temple were delayed by three years due to confusion over jurisdiction of Kathmandu Metropolitan City, the Department of Archaeology and NRA to undertake the reconstruction of this historical heritage site.

NRA has claimed that reconstruction works have been expedited to meet the deadline. It said the works of constructing the wall around the pond and laying black soil on its bed will be completed by 14 January 2020.

Twenty per cent of reconstruction of the temple has been completed and wood works of the temple were under way.

NRA said 85 percent construction of the wall has been completed while 40 percent work on the pond has been over.

Heritage expert at NRA, Rajuman Manandhar said people will be able to see Rani Pokhari in its previous form by the middle of May 2020.

“Many works have been completed and remaining works of reconstruction are taking place smoothly. So, we are confident that the reconstruction will be completed within the stipulated time,” he said.