Dadeldhura, March 24

Historical caves, which have their own significance in terms of tourism, are at a high risk of disappearance due to the lack of conservation and promotion in various hilly districts of the far-west region.

The caves are in a dilapidated for want of protection and conservation in the region.

Ganesh Magar, a local, of Dadeldhura said that two historical caves of the district were in the shadows due to the deaf ears of the concerned authority.

He further added that even the caves - Bhitri and Raute of Amargadi and Pokharabazaar in the district were on the verge of disappearing.

It is said that the famous caves Markende and Dharmi that lie on the border of Darchula and Bajhang districts are also at a risk of disappearing due to negligence.

Locals said that no one was ready to conserve the history of the districts though they had requested District Development Committee, among other concerned authorities many times.

Darchula Local Development Officer Sahadev Rayamajhi said that his office could not afford the conservation work as the budget amount was insufficient in the DDC to repair the caves.

It is also said that dozens of caves in Doti, Achham, Bajura and Baitadai districts of the far-west region were at risk of disappearance due to lack of conservation.

Dadeldhura Chambers of Commerce and Industry Chairman Khem Raj Paneru said that the caves with historical importance would disappear if they did not pay timely attention.

It has been reported that Bharat Bahadur Chand died in Patale Bhumeshwor Cave in Patan, Baitadai, two weeks ago. Armed Police Force team had taken out Chand’s body, which was decomposing.

District Police Office, Baitadai said that Chand died after he could not breathe properly due to lack of oxygen as he had gone deep into the cave.