Smita Adhikari, Pokhara, Feb 28: Statues of martyrs and national dignitaries are under construction at the National Dignitaries Park in Jamunbot, Pokhara. 

The construction was started a few months ago in the initiative of Pokhara Metropolitan City.

Pokhara Metropolitan City targets to construct the statues of 25 martyrs or dignitaries, including Dasharath Chanda, Dharma Bhakta Mathema, Gangalal Shrestha, Jibaraj Ashrit  and all those who contributed to driving the nation towards the path of  development. The construction of the park and the statues was also meant to promote tourism in Pokhara.

Construction of five statues has already been completed. 

Statues of unifier of Nepal King Prithvi Narayan Shah, founder of Nepal Communist Party Pushpa Lal Shrestha, first martyr of Jana Andolan-2, Bhimsen Dahal, local NC leader Yogendraman  Sherchan and  former minister Rabindra Adhikari  have been already erected.

Meanwhile, the metropolis had removed all the previously erected statutes at various parts of  the city for managing the traffic and transportation system.

"We should honour all those dignitaries who contributed to bringing the nation up to the current status, so we planned to make National Park in their memory," Mayor of Pokhara Metropolitan City  Man Bahadur GC said.  

The park is under construction in an area of 57 ropanis of land.

Construction cost of the park is estimated at Rs. 170 million.  The park will also be a sightseeing   spot  for the visitors to the lack city.