he controversy at Chobhar Gorge centers around a government plan to remove large boulders and debris to reduce flood risks in Kathmandu Valley. While officials say the move is necessary to prevent future flooding, locals and heritage activists are pushing back, fearing it could damage a site with deep cultural, historical, and geological importance. The gorge is not only the Valley’s only natural water outlet but also holds legendary and spiritual significance. Critics worry that altering its structure could destroy its archaeological value. The lack of clear communication about the project has also fueled public concern and protests, especially on social media. At the heart of the issue is a debate between disaster preparedness and heritage preservation—raising the question of whether the government can protect both lives and legacy at the same time.

 Chobhar Gorge, the only natural outlet for water from Kathmandu Valley’s rivers and streams, has become the focus of a heated debate. The government plans to remove five large boulders and debris from the gorge to reduce the risk of flooding—but the move has sparked strong opposition from locals and heritage activists.

The operation, which will be carried out by the Nepali Army, is part of the government's disaster preparedness plan. Officials say that boulders, debris, and a landslide from the Kirtipur side are blocking the river’s natural flow, raising the chances of erosion and flooding downstream. The issue became urgent after heavy rainfall last October flooded several areas of Kathmandu, including Nakkhu, Kalimati, Balkhu, and Thapathali.

However, critics argue that disturbing the gorge could damage a site that’s not just geologically important, but also rich in cultural and historical significance. According to legend, it was the Bodhisattva Manjushree who cut through Chobhar Gorge to drain a large lake and make Kathmandu Valley habitable. Today, the gorge is seen as a symbol of the Valley’s spiritual and historical identity.

Activists worry the work could go beyond simple cleanup and potentially harm the gorge’s structure. There’s also concern about the vague language in the government’s plan—especially the phrase “removing obstructions”—which some fear could mean widening or altering the gorge itself.

In response, Prakash Aryal, head of the Bagmati Civilization Integrated Development Committee under the Ministry of Urban Development, said only selected boulders that are blocking water flow will be removed. “We are not demolishing the gorge,” he said, blaming misinformation on social media for public alarm.

Aryal explained that the plan is based on technical studies identifying four main flood risks: sediment buildup, erosion from landslides near Kirtipur, poor drainage, and gravel accumulation. He added that the plan follows requests from local authorities, including Kirtipur Municipality and Ward 18, who raised concerns after the 2022 floods.

“This is about managing flood risk, not destroying heritage,” Aryal said. “We’ll involve the army only if necessary, and all steps are being taken carefully.”

As the controversy continues, Chobhar Gorge now stands at the center of a larger question: how to protect the Valley’s rich heritage while also keeping its people safe from natural disasters.