Works begin to check Nil Barahi Temple landslides

Kathmandu, Dec. 25: To control landslides on the western side of the Nil Barahi Temple, the Kathmandu Valley Development Authority (KVDA) has awarded a tender for long-term protection of the area from soil erosion.

Under the KVDA project titled Urban Ecosystem-based Adaptation for Climate-Resilient Development, the contract was awarded to G.S./Golmadevi Engineering JV at a cost of Rs. 58.9 million on June 8, 2025. 

The project includes the exploration of slope-stabilisation methods, construction of retaining walls, and soil nailing to ensure safe, durable, and cost-effective erosion and landslide control.

With enthusiastic participation of local residents, particularly on Saturdays, volunteer labour has significantly contributed to protecting the Nil Barahi Temple premises and the surrounding forest area from soil erosion. As part of the initial phase, mud-filling work along an 800–900-metre road section has been completed.

Due to continuous soil erosion, landslides have occurred at 13 locations along the same road section. Initiated by the Shree Nil Barahi Area Conservation Concern Committee, the initial mud-filling work was completed through volunteer labour, monetary donations, and contributions of food items for volunteers, said Dil Krishna Rajbahak, President of the Committee.

However, the awarded contract will cover only a 50–55-metre section on the western side of the temple for permanent erosion control. For long-term protection, comprehensive slope stabilisation is still required.

Despite the tender award, work could not proceed after the Department of Archaeology (DoA) issued a directive a few months ago prohibiting construction without a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA). The issuance of the HIA report by the DoA on December 15, 2025, has now cleared the way for landslide-control works aimed at conserving the Nil Barahi Temple and the surrounding forest area.

Surendra Shrestha, Mayor of Madhyapur Thimi Municipality, said that a technical team has recently mapped a 5.5-metre-wide road leading to the temple. He added that work would proceed after consultations with all stakeholders and the preparation of a master plan for the long-term preservation of the temple and forest area.

Deputy Mayor Bijaya Krishna Shrestha stated that the Nil Barahi Temple would be preserved through sustainable, nature-friendly structures to protect it from landslides.

Ward No. 9 Chairperson Sanu Kaji Rajbahak said that construction works should be completed before the Nil Barahi festival, which falls in the Nepali month of Baishakh.

Located in the northern part of the historic city of Tigani, the Nil Barahi Temple lies in a peaceful location away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Local residents of Bode have taken initiative to protect the historic temple, which faces increasing risk due to soil erosion.

The volunteer labour campaign began on May 16, 2025, following the formation of the committee, and continued until October–November. It was halted after the DoA directive requiring an HIA, Rajbahak said.

He added that while road opening and mud-filling works have been completed, slope stabilisation remains necessary to secure the soil and prevent it from being washed away by rainwater.

Since the beginning of the labour campaign, more than 60,000 people have contributed volunteer labour. In addition, individuals from across the country and Nepalis living abroad have supported the campaign through financial donations, often in the names of their parents or themselves. Some donors have contributed anonymously.

“After nearly a decade of neglect by local governments, this citizens’ campaign has grown into a large-scale movement,” Rajbahak said, adding that more than Rs. 15.7 million has been raised to date.

The Nil Barahi Temple, established by King Bishnu Gupta, is located in Tigani of Madhyapur Thimi Municipality in Bhaktapur district. A fair is held during Dashain, and special worship is conducted during Biska Jatra.

Unlike other temples, Nil Barahi does not have a pinnacle. The temple is covered by a serpent’s hood and features sattals on all four sides.

The people of the valley worship Nil Barahi as the goddess of wealth, also known as Dhana Barahi. It is believed that worshipping the goddess helps prevent a lack of wealth and property.