Kathmandu: The Ministry of Urban Development has announced that the historically significant rocks at Chobhar Galchi will not be removed. The ministry released a statement indicating that while the Galchi rocks will remain untouched, efforts will be made to clear the accumulated garbage in the area.
According to National News Agency Nepal, waste management is a priority due to recurring flooding issues around Chobhar Galchi, especially during heavy rains. Ministry spokesperson Narayan Prasad Mainali confirmed there are no plans to remove the historic rocks, emphasizing the focus on developing a technical action plan for waste removal and landslide prevention.
Mainali highlighted that Chobhar serves as a crucial drainage point in the valley, where water from city drains accumulates, posing a flood risk during monsoon when water discharge is blocked. The Ministry aims to manage waste to mitigate flooding while preserving the historic and cultural significance of Chobhar Galchi.
The Ministry’s statement underscores a commitment to human security and natural resource protection in Chobhar. Following the 32nd meeting of the Executive Committee of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority on June 8, the Ministry addressed public and political concerns about potential flooding and the involvement of the Nepal Army in managing the site.
The Ministry’s clarification aims to quell the controversy and address the growing public interest in disaster mitigation measures.