KATHMANDU: Despite the prevalent COVID-19 crisis, government has given continuation to reconstruct Dharahara, which was grounded during the 2015 earthquake, in Kathmandu.

The historical Dharahara tower which was constructed by Bhimsen Thapa in the 18th century in the capital city was completely destroyed after Nepal was hit by a 7.8-magnitude quake.

The new Dharahara will be constructed as per its original style, approximately 22-story tall, with two elevators. Reconstruction of Dharahara had begun after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, in December last year, laid the foundation stone for the monument.

The heritage site is being reconstructed at an estimated cost of Rs 3.48 billion.

Here are a few snapshots captured by photojournalists Naresh Shrestha and Balkrishna Thapa for The Himalayan Times -