KATHMANDU: The Pathibhara area in Taplejung, which has already been embroiled in controversy over the cable car construction project, is now witnessing a new dispute after the Pathibhara Area Development Committee issued a three-day ultimatum to remove human-made structures.
Executive Director Prajin Hangwang of the Pathibhara Area Development Committee issued a notice on March 21, instructing the removal of structures, including pati, pauwa, and tahara, built within the Pathibhara area.
The notice highlighted the removal of somyolung (stone) and yagrangsing (nine-story iron staircase) that were established on the hill of Pathibhara on the night of March 19.
The committee warned that if the concerned parties do not contact the office within the given time frame, the structures will be removed by the committee itself. The ultimatum is part of an effort to preserve the natural beauty of the Pathibhara area by preventing unauthorized constructions.
The Pathibhara Area Development Committee, established in 1995 under the Development Board Act 1956, has been mandated to protect and promote the pilgrimage site. The committee’s plan includes planting trees and maintaining the area’s natural beauty while restricting any man-made structures within the main entrance of Pathibhara.
However, the directive has faced opposition from the local community and religious groups. Yuma Samyo Nepal Secretary Bhimsen Limbu issued a statement urging the committee not to remove the Yagrangsing and Samyolung structures, which hold sacred significance for Yuma followers.
Limbu argued that the structures are important for performing religious rituals and should be preserved in their original condition.
Similarly, Lokendra Tabebung, representing Yakthung Chumlung, criticized the decision and stated that the Yakthung Limbus would not comply with the directive, asserting that the traditional symbols are an integral part of their cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, some of the manufacturers involved in the construction have contacted the committee and requested not to demolish the structures. Executive Director Hangwang confirmed that discussions are underway to find a consensus before making a final decision.
The issue has also sparked debate over the construction of cable car facilities in the area. Hangwang stated that the final decision regarding cable car structures would depend on reviewing the new Detailed Project Report (DPR) prepared by the cable car company.
Comment