In a bid to support wildlife and improve forest fire management, nine new ponds have been constructed across community forests in the district. The initiative, led by the Division Forest Office, was part of a pond construction program aimed at enhancing ecological balance and providing essential water resources.
Jhyam Narayan Sapkota, Head of the Division Forest Office, announced that the ponds were strategically built at locations with perennial water sources. The initial goal was to construct ten ponds with a budget of one million rupees; however, nine were completed at a total cost of NPR 839,000.
The newly constructed ponds are located in various community forests: Deupuja Community Forest in Falebas Municipality-3, Lohose Chisakhark Community Forest in Modi Rural Municipality-4, Barahatal Than Community Forest and Gidaure Salghari Community Forest in Kushma Municipality-14, and Tandi Bisauna Community Forest in Jaljala Rural Municipality-4. Additionally, ponds have been built in Lastiberneta Community Forest in Jaljala-8, Kaloban Batulechaur Community Forest in Falebas Municipality-7, and Salleri Community Forest in Kushma Municipality-3.
Jeevan Uchai Thakuri, Chairman of the Community Forest Users Federation, highlighted the benefits of these ponds, stating that they will aid in extinguishing fires and controlling rising temperatures. He also emphasized the positive impact on local water springs, as the collected water helps recharge these sources, contributing to the overall conservation of water resources in the area.
The ponds not only bolster fire control measures but also offer valuable resources for local wildlife, thereby enhancing the district’s tourism appeal by promoting a healthier and more sustainable natural environment.
