Ghantaghar: Kathmandu’s historic clock tower faces an existential crisis
Ghantaghar, the clock tower in Kathmandu. Photo: Aryan Dhimal As schoolchildren what Kathmandu has to be proud of, and perhaps one of the first things they say in Ghantaghar. The historic clock tower situated inside the compound of Tri-Chandra College was built by Rana Prime Minister Bir Shamsher. After its destruction in the 1934 earthquake , the clock tower was rebuilt in its current shape. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation ( UNESCO ) has listed artificial structures over 100 years old as heritage, which justifies Ghantaghar to be a national property and a heritage. By the way, have you ever wondered how it still gives you accurate time? Well, Ganesh Sapkota, is the only mechanic of Ghantaghar, who can answer you how. However, Sapkota who is repairing the clock for 35 years, is afraid that after his retirement, due after two years, there would not be anyone who could have the skills to repair it when he finds the decision of the central pro...