Chitwan, October 27

Chitwan National Park is all set to build more ponds in the park as water sources have started drying up due to the effects of climate change, soil erosion, flood and landslide.

Assistant Conservation Officer at Chitwan National Park Nurendra Aryal said preparations were under way to build additional 18 ponds this year in the park. A budget of Rs 16.1 million has been allocated for the construction of the ponds. The park has around 63 ponds and lakes currently.

“Eastern parts of the park will be given priority while building the ponds as many water sources had dried up there of late,” Aryal stated.

“With the construction of new ponds, the existing ponds too will be managed well. Weed, soil and boulders will be removed from the existing ponds,” he added.

According to Chief Conservation Officer at Chitwan National Park Bed Kumar Dhakal, wild animals  were relying on limited water sources  for want of adequate number of ponds.