Dharahara Tower, also known as Bhimsen Tower, was a historical landmark in Kathmandu, Nepal. The tower was built in 1832 by the Prime Minister of Nepal, Bhimsen Thapa, and served as a watchtower for the royal family. It was a nine-story tall structure, standing at a height of 61.88 meters (203 feet) and had a spiral staircase of 213 steps leading to the top. The tower offered a stunning panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular tourist destination.
Tragically, the tower was destroyed in the devastating earthquake that struck Nepal on April 25, 2015. The earthquake, which measured 7.8 on the Richter scale, caused widespread damage across the country, claiming over 8,000 lives and injuring more than 21,000 people. The Dharahara Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks of Nepal, was among the many historical and cultural sites that were destroyed.
The destruction of the Dharahara Tower was a significant loss for the people of Nepal. The tower had a rich history and cultural significance, and was an important symbol of the country’s heritage. The tower had withstood previous earthquakes, including the massive earthquake that struck Nepal in 1934, and had become a symbol of resilience and strength for the people of Nepal.
Efforts are now underway to rebuild the tower and restore it to its former glory. The Nepalese government has allocated funds for the reconstruction of the tower, and the project is being overseen by the National Reconstruction Authority. The reconstruction of the tower is seen as an important step towards the restoration of Nepal’s cultural heritage, and a symbol of hope for the people of Nepal.
The rebuilding of the Dharahara Tower has not been without controversy, however. Some people have argued that the tower should be rebuilt exactly as it was before the earthquake, while others have suggested that it should be redesigned to better withstand earthquakes in the future. There have also been concerns about the use of funds for the reconstruction of the tower, and whether they should be used for other pressing needs in Nepal, such as housing and infrastructure.
Despite the challenges, the rebuilding of the Dharahara Tower is a project of great significance for the people of Nepal. It represents a commitment to preserving the country’s cultural heritage, and a symbol of hope for the future. The tower has been an important part of the Nepalese identity for nearly two centuries, and its reconstruction will be a testament to the resilience and strength of the Nepalese people.
