BHAKTAPUR, March 31: Vaaju Pokhari, a pond that existed since ancient time at Dudhpati, Bhaktpur that turned into a meadow is being revived into its original shape.

The pond that lies between Bhaktpur Multiple Campus and Siddha Pokhari is spread in 27 ropanis of land. The workers involved in reviving the pond have already cleaned grasses, plastics and other dirt from the area and are now preparing it to fill the water. They have planned to fill the pond with water after putting a layer of black clay on the bottom.

The pond was turned into a meadow as it couldn’t hold sufficient water. Chairperson of Bhaktpur Municipality-1, Shyam Krishna Khatri stated that storage of water in a pond became possible as they worked based on a scientific research. 

“We have started to fill the pond with water brought from a nearby well. Water pumps are installed to fill the pond. Though pumps are used for round the clock, the pond is not completely filled due to its large area,” said Khatri. “Researchers have also traced existence of one temple in the center of the pond so we are planning to restore that as well. For that, students of Khwopa Engineering College are doing a research on it.” 

According to history and culture expert, Prof Dr Purushottam Lochan Shrestha, this pond was built in 18th century B.S. during Malla dynasty. This pond is called Vaajyaa Pukhu in Nepal Bhasa (Newari Language). 

Earlier, the pond was being used as dumping site. More than 20 houses in the northern side of the pond had connected their sewage pipe to this pond.

But, after the election of local levels held last year, the elected representatives took initiatives to restore the pond in its original shape and design.