March 12, Kathmandu
India has proposed that it be allowed to rebuild 14 sites damaged by the earthquake in Nepal last year.
The sites include Kasthmandap, the travellers’ rest from which the city derives its name, and Swayambhu, one of the holiest sites for Buddhists, according to sources at the Department of Archaeology.
However, the Nepal government says it can’t approve the proposal as other parties, including the Kathmandu Metropolitan City, have already started work on the structures on India’s list.
“Kasthmandap is going to be built by the city itself. The department has also started paperwork to start work at Swayambhunath,” said department chief Bhesh Narayan Dahal. He said that the Indian government could, however, get other projects. Dahal added that the department will urge India to help in the reconstruction of Budhanilkantha.
