Bhaktapur, March 23: Known as a living museum of Nepal’s history, art, and culture, Bhaktapur continues to captivate visitors with its ancient palaces, temples, monasteries, and intricately crafted brick-and-wood houses. More than just a city, Bhaktapur stands as a vibrant heritage site where every alley and courtyard echoes stories of the past.
However, in recent years, a contrasting reality has embraced this cultural beauty—the rise of brick kilns and their towering chimneys emitting thick smoke. What was once a skyline defined by temples and traditional architecture is increasingly being overshadowed by pollution, especially during the early morning hours when smoke mixes with the sunlight.
However, brick kilns operating around Bhaktapur play a crucial role in supplying materials for the construction industry. They have contributed to job creation and local economic activity, supporting many livelihoods.
Yet, this development has come at a cost. The environment and cultural heritage of the area are facing growing threats due to air pollution. Out of nearly 100 brick kilns in the Kathmandu Valley, a significant number are concentrated in and around Bhaktapur, intensifying concerns over sustainability and preservation. #nepal #bhaktapur #pollution #brick
Photo: Mithun Kunwar
