The Ministry of Urban Development has made it clear that they do not plan to take away the old natural rocks at Chobhar Gorge.

In a statement issued Thursday, the ministry addressed public concern and differing views regarding the High Powered Committee for Integrated Development of the Bagmati Civilization’s (HPCIDBC) plan to clear blockages in the Bagmati River near Chobhar Gorge. It emphasized that the goal is not to widen the gorge or alter its historic rock structures but to remove flood debris accumulated above the gorge, assess landslide-prone areas, and carry out technical studies to develop a long-term flood mitigation plan.

Emphasizing the need to safeguard lives and property from floods and landslides, the ministry underscored the importance of balancing disaster risk reduction efforts with the preservation of Chobhar Gorge’s cultural and natural significance. It confirmed that the historic rock formations will be preserved and left as they are.

The ministry also cited a resolution from the 32nd meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority’s executive committee, which called for the removal of obstructions to river flow at Chobhar Gorge to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall. Instructions were given to collaborate with the Nepal Army if needed.

This clarification was issued in response to confusion and controversy sparked by social media and political commentary regarding the implementation of this decision.

This clarification was issued in response to confusion and controversy sparked by social media and political commentary regarding the implementation of this decision.