Jajarkot’s Seto Durbar crumbles after surviving three major earthquakes
Summary
Jajarkot’s historic Seto Durbar has partially collapsed after being weakened by the 2023 earthquake and successive monsoons, putting its 200-year-old heritage at risk. The government says it has allocated Rs 200 million for reconstruction, while conservationists are urging that the palace’s original style be preserved.
Key Points
- Jajarkot’s Seto Durbar has collapsed in the northern and southern sections after damage from the 2023 earthquake and repeated monsoon rains.
- The palace, once used for government offices, has a history of surviving major earthquakes in 1934, 1988 and 2023.
- Local heritage expert Janak KC says the original form of the palace is fading and warns that its history could be erased if reconstruction is delayed.
- Chief District Officer Nabaraj Baral says Rs 200 million has been allocated for Seto Durbar’s reconstruction under a multi-year plan.
