DAMAULI: Bhanu Ghansi Park, located in Ghansikuwa, Byas Municipality-12 of Tanahun, is set to be reconstructed after being displaced due to the expansion of the Muglin–Pokhara road. The Muglin–Pokhara Road Project (Eastern Section) is leading the reconstruction effort.
The park, originally built to honor national literary figure Bhanubhakta Acharya, was dismantled as it fell within the road expansion parameters. Now, a detailed project report (DPR) has been prepared with support from the road project to restore and enhance the park.
Gopal Surkhali, Vice-Chairperson of the Bhanu Ghansi Memorial Conservation Committee, stated that the DPR aims to develop the park into a more attractive and meaningful site.
“The existence of the park was destroyed during highway expansion. Now, with the help of the road project, we aim to rebuild it as a significant and appealing destination,” he said.
The DPR, prepared at an estimated cost of Rs. 35.3 million, has been submitted to the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for approval. Once approved, construction will move forward. Surkhali noted that although efforts were made to preserve the park during road expansion, it could not be saved due to project guidelines at the time.
At present, the site includes an old statue of Bhanubhakta Acharya and a grassy well. Plans for the reconstructed park include public toilets, space for selling local products, improved landscaping, and infrastructure to attract more visitors.
Engineer Mandeep Shrestha, a consultant for the Muglin–Pokhara Road Expansion Project, informed that the DPR was prepared by Niwa Consultancy.
Features of the new park will include a parking lot, an attractive entrance, a pedestrian pathway, a road connecting to the Buldi riverbank, the national flag, a three-meter-high statue of Bhanubhakta Acharya, a half-height statue of Motiram Bhatta, and a dedicated sales area for local goods.
Byas Municipality Mayor Baikuntha Neupane emphasized that Bhanu Ghansi Park should be developed into a cultural hub. “This location is also the gateway to the historic Tanahunsur. It should serve as an information center to promote the city’s religious and cultural heritage,” he said.
Situated just five kilometers from Damauli, the district headquarters, Bhanu Ghansi Park was once a popular rest stop for travelers. In the past, small shops near the park created a vibrant atmosphere, but activity dwindled following the demolition of the original structures.
Local stakeholders hope the reconstruction will restore its appeal and revive tourism in the area.
Comment