Dhap Pokhari: A model of local conservation in Jamuna, Ilam

By Kokila Dhakal,Ilam, Aug. 25: Dhap Pokhari located in Jamuna, Sandakpur Rural Municipality, Ilam, is becoming a unique example of water and environmental conservation. The locals have conserved this pond so well that it is hard to believe that it is a manmade pond.

The site where the pond was constructed was originally a wetland and its conservation began in 2015. Locals provided around 55 ropanis of land free of cost to construct the pond. 

According to Biplab Bhattarai, Chairman of the Chandrapal Thewe Wetland Tourism Development Committee, Chandrapal Thewe Foundation, a local guthi, and 25 individuals contributed land ranging from one to six ropanis to construct the pond.

Recently, tourists visiting Ilam have also started traveling to Jamuna to see Dhap Pokhari, which has become a subject of study and observation for nature enthusiasts and conservationists. “The pond has benefited local water sources, springs around the pond do not dry up even during the dry season,” said Bhattarai.

Tourists visiting other attractions like Sandakpur, Jaubari and Choyatar Community Forest also come to see the pond. Choyatar Community Forest is a habitat for the endangered Red Panda.

Visitors who come to see the Red Panda often visit Dhap Pokhari and applaud the conservation efforts driven by local initiatives said local representative Kumar Gurung.

According to him, homestays are also rapidly being developed in this area, with facilities currently available to accommodate around 50 guests per night.

The land donated by locals for the pond is still in the name of the donors. The ward office has not shown much interest in transferring the land into its name. However, locals are eager to complete the land transfer, said Ward Chairman Yagya Gurung.

“Transferring the land ownership requires certain funds, and the land is not transferred in the ward's name owing to the lack of funds. However, within the year 2024, we are trying to register the land in the name of the ward,” said Gurung. 

The locals and the conservation committee have done a commendable job. It is an area worthy of praise. For this purpose, the ward has allocated some budget this year, he said.

According to Gurung, a Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared to construct a few infrastructures around the pond. Plans include constructing a path around the pond, channeling water from about one kilometer uphill to create a waterfall in the pond and operating boats.

Gurung believes that with the annual rise in temperature and increasing heat, this pond can be one of the most sought-after retreats in the district to escape the heat. “If we can attract people coming to escape the heat from Tarai to this area, it could help in tourism development and increase the income of the locals,” he added.

He said, “In the coming years, the development of tourism, homestays and environmental conservation in this area will be significant for us.” This man-made pond serves as a remarkable model for water conservation for many.