August 2: The UNESCO recognized architectural monument of Kathmandu, Dharahara, which was destroyed by the last year’s devastating earthquake is being constructed at the cost of Rs 3 billion. Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Citizen Aviation announced the new Dharahara construction plan amid a program on August 1. It has been informed that the tourists can now reach the top of the monument through the elevator constructed in the structure.

“New Dharahara will be constructed to be able to withstand up to 8 rector scale of earthquake,” said Ananda Pokharel, Tourism Minister. After the fall of historic monument, debate was escalated on who will build the Dharahara issue. Later, it was decided that Dharahara will be constructed from the contributions made by Nepali people under the program “Mero Dharahara Ma Aafai Banauchu (I will make my Dharahara)”.The new Dharahara will adopt the same old structure. The earlier 5 ropanies of area will be expanded to 42 ropanies adjoining General Post Office and Taxxar Office at Sundhara.

The to-be constructed 11 storeys Dharahara will be constructed in front of the remaining of the old Dharahara which will not be removed.

According to Minister Pokharel, under the program “Mero Dharahara Ma Aafai Banauchu”, Rs 19.5 million has been collected so far. The remaining amount required to build the Dharahara will be contributed by Nepal Telecom. The government has planned to conclude the construction within three years.