Transformation of World Heritage Site - Changu Narayan Monument Zone - Development Constraints and Opportunities -

Ref.: 68
Área temática: 01 Integridad física de los paisajes urbanos históricos
Fecha de recepción: 19/11/2008

AUTORES (* Autor principal)

K. SHRESTHA, Bijaya (Nepal) - Khwopa Engineering College
SHRESTHA, Sushmita * (Nepal) - Khwopa Engineering College

ABSTRACT

Text (500 words maximum):
The existence of one of the oldest `Vaishnav' shrines on a hilltop rural setting with minimal disturbance, beautiful views of natural scenery and social harmony among diverse communities all makes the Changu Narayan Monument Zone unique among the other World Heritage sites of the Kathmandu Valley. This linear settlement best demonstrates the traditional `Newari' architectural vocabulary in the rural context with many representative memories and shared values. Such unique features have been conserved and sustained for the last many centuries through socio-religious norms embedded into local festivals and practice, implemented by social institution [Guthi System]. However, rapid urbanisation of the Kathmandu Valley causing haphazard expansion of numerous cities of the Valley has put tremendous pressure in this rural setting of Changu Narayan Monument Zone. The development challenge is to keep the balance between the communities' inspiration for socio-economic modernisation and conservation of this unique hill top settlement with rural character. Haphazard building transformation [change in building occupancy and density] causing invasion on cultural space by incompatible activities and destruction on streetscape coupled with the demise of the `Guthi system' resulting in negligence of social artefacts and erosion of religious beliefs and faiths have already indicated the loss of cultural identity and intensification of earthquake vulnerability. Lack of master plan and existence of ineffective building regulation has not only constrained the efforts of responsible agencies but has also unabated the rate of destruction and negligence of cultural values by individuals. To reverse this trend, the strategic actions include the development of a comprehensive conservation oriented master plan rather than a selective conservation approach; formulation of planning and design guidelines respecting the cultural landscape and enhancing coordination and cooperation among responsible agencies and people, whereas the specific programs include education and training, more socioeconomic benefits from crafts, tourism and related activities; and economic incentives [favourable tax policies loans and grants, etc.] for appropriate uses and conservation.

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