The Ministry of Urban Development has clarified that it has no intention of removing the naturally formed rocks at Chobhar Gorge that have existed since ancient times.
The ministry said that although the High Powered Committee for Integrated Development of the Bagmati Civilization (HPCIDBC) plans to clear obstructions in the Bagmati River near the Chobhar Gorge, its attention has been drawn to differing opinions that have emerged regarding the matter.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the ministry stated that its objective is to remove debris accumulated above the Chobhar Gorge from past floods, identify potential landslide-prone areas for preventive measures, conduct necessary technical studies and prepare an action plan for its long-term solution.
"It is our shared responsibility to prevent loss of lives and property from disasters like floods and landslides, as well as to protect settlements expanded along riverbanks. While preserving the religious, cultural, and ancient identity of the Chobhar Gorge, the drainage point of the Kathmandu Valley, this ministry aims to reduce potential flooding around the area by removing debris deposited above the gorge, identifying landslide-prone zones, and preparing an action plan after conducting technical studies for its long-term solution. However, the ministry has no intention of widening the gorge or removing the naturally formed rocks that have existed since ancient times," the statement issued by the ministry's spokesperson said.
The ministry also referred to a decision made by the 32nd meeting of the executive committee of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, which addressed removing obstructions above the Chobhar Gorge.
“During times of continuous rainfall, obstructions in the river flow at the Chobhar Gorge cause flooding in surrounding areas. To prevent this problem from recurring in the future, a letter was received directing the ministry to coordinate with the Nepal Army, if necessary, to reduce disaster risks. This press release has been issued as differing opinions expressed on social media and by political parties regarding the implementation of the decision have caused confusion among the public,” the ministry stated.
