July 13, Kathmandu.
A powerful earthquake in April 2072 not only caused great damage to property in the country but also led to the construction of strong structures. Discussions also started on the construction of traditional or modern style structures. It also provided an opportunity for many to know and understand the importance of the traditional style.
Vijay Lama of Humla Simkot built a two-and-a-half-story RCC building four years ago for Rs 70 million. When asked about the reason for constructing such an expensive building by transporting cement and poles in a helicopter, Lama said, "After the earthquake in Kathmandu, there was a rumor that there would be an earthquake. I demolished the old house to make it safer."
According to Lama, there are now two government offices and about half a dozen such houses in Simkot. According to Lama, there is a bid to demolish an old house in Simkot and build a modern building.
Presenting the final budget of this term, Kathmandu Metropolitan City has announced a bumper offer to the city dwellers who build houses in the old style. According to the new criteria of the corporation, if a person repairs an old house in the World Heritage Area, a procedure has been made to give him a grant of up to Rs 3.2 million.
For this, the settlements within the metropolis have been divided into four categories and the title of the grant has been specified accordingly. For example, if someone builds an old-style house in the Naya Baneshwor area, the grant he gets will be less than if he builds a house in the Asan area. Officials in the metropolis say the decision was made after locals lost interest in building the old design house.
