By Smita Adhikari

Pokhara, Mar. 25 : Locals residing around the Khaste and Neureni lakes in Pokhara are organising a 10-day fair to promote and publicise the rich biodiversity that exists around the water bodies.

The two lakes, located in Kharane Phant, Pokhara Metropolitan City (PMC) Ward No. 26, are called the 'bird wetlands' as they are a sanctuary for birds of various species.

The ‘First Khaste Lake Festival 2021,’ as it has been titled, is being organised by the Khaste and Neureni Development Committee which claims that over 80 per cent of festival participants are residents of Ward Nos. 26, 27 and 28 of that city.

The Development Committee held a press meet on Tuesday and informed that the fair would start from Thursday and would go on till April 5. “All the preparations are complete,” said Hari Prasad Adhikari, chairman of the committee, “Our objective is to promote these lakes as pristine wetland areas.”

According to the locals, the two lakes have long been neglected, partly because of a decline in the number of visiting tourists but also because of the callous attitude of the authorities. "That is why we took the initiative with the festival to restore these lakes back to their former glory,” chair Adhikari said.

Khaste and Neureni lakes are home to many different species of fish and plants. They also attract many birds including migratory birds from India and as far as Siberia.

“The fair aims to promote all the specialities of these places. A total of 110 stalls will be set up which will sell local agricultural products including grains and vegetables at reasonable prices. Our target is to attract 50,000 visitors and we expect to earn Rs. 10 million,” Adhikari said.

According to the organisers, the income from the fair will be utilised to beautify the lakes and provide financial opportunities to the locals.