Author

Nistha JOSHI
Department of Urban Design and Conservation, Khwopa Engineering College, Nepal
Email:nisthajoc@gmail.com

Jharna JOSHI
PhD, Department of Urban Design and Conservation, Khwopa Engineering College, Nepal
Email: jharnajoshi@gmail.com

 

Abstract

Nepal, a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage, has witnessed urban revival in recent years through the restoration of its historic ponds. These ponds, once integral to the social and cultural fabric of communities, have gradually lost their significance due to urbanization and neglect. This study explores the multifaceted impact of restoring physical infrastructure, with a particular focus on Pimbahal pond, a historic pond in Kathmandu Valley, through case studies, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. The findings highlight how the restoration of ponds have revitalized cultural practices, enhanced community engagement, and boosted tourism, thereby improving the quality of life for local residents. This research contributes to the broader discourse on heritage preservation, community development, and the intricate relationship between physical infrastructure and cultural identity in a rapidly changing world. The insights gained from this study are globally relevant, offering valuable lessons on the positive social impacts of restoring heritage sites and underscoring the importance of preserving our shared cultural heritage.

Keywords

Pimbahal; Revitalization; Historic Pond; Urban Square; Community; Urban Ssustainability

 

Introduction

Historic urban squares contribute to the distinctive character of a city, which serves to create a sense of place and builds in an urban identity. Nevertheless, the growing tension between contemporary requirements and traditional values continually poses a threat to these historic centers (Shrestha, B., & Chitrakar, R., 2020). Historic urban squares have played a significant part in people's lives, where a variety of activities, including social, political, religious, environmental, and economic ones, are carried out throughout the history. Urban squares are one of the urban public spaces, acting as a basic component of the city fabric in the context of city development history. Lynch (2009) defines urban squares as hubs of human activity in heavily populated places. Historic urban squares are important as urban heritage as well as fundamental social places that host public events and social activities. Unlike parks, recreational places, or shopping malls, urban squares improve the overall quality of civic life by integrating into the city's urban systems. Although modern cities exhibit a homogeneity trend, there is also a competitive effort to distinguish themselves by showcasing their own histories, cultures, and ways of life (Daniel & Avner, 2011).

Historically, public spaces were largely for pedestrians; however, with the growth of motorized vehicles, industrialization, and technology improvements, this traditional domain has been overshadowed (Gehl, 2010). There are trends in contemporary urban growth with the functions of public spaces being undermined or transformed owing to shifting conceptions of the public realm. However, advocates for the revaluation of public space are also growing, with concepts such as "renaissance of social public space," in which public spaces remain vital to modern social life (Foth et al. 2011). The importance of the public realm is underscored by the acknowledgement of public spaces as critical components of sustainable urban development. 

Historic cities' urban squares are dynamic physical spaces. They are constantly changing: either expanding, contracting or undergoing internal restructuring in response to economic and social pressures. Their essence centers on activities, making them people-centric places where the interaction between people and the environment gives the squares their significance. Their relevance develops over time, influenced by people's aspirations and changing urban space demands. As a public space, urban squares are intended to promote a variety of activities in the open air of towns and cities (Krier, 1979). As per Couch C., 1990, the change that affects urban areas results from the gradual spatial and sectoral adjustments to economic activity and the movement of population between or within existing urban areas.

Urban revival often incorporates elements of urban regeneration but places a stronger emphasis on creating vibrant, desirable, and economically thriving urban environments (Urban design lab, 2022). It focuses on overall urban sustainability that include the social, economic, and physical aspects of development. It often includes efforts to improve cultural amenities, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance sustainability. The urban revival, or the revitalization of cities, is a complex and ongoing process that can be traced back to different time periods depending on the specific context. However, a significant shift in urban development and revitalization began to take place in the latter half of the 20th century (Chigbu, 2012). 

Urban sustainability refers to the concept of creating and maintaining cities that are environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable. It involves adopting practices and policies that promote long-term well-being and balance between urban development and the natural environment. Urbanization increases with the proportion of the total national population living in urban areas. There are three basic components of sustainable development: economic, social and environmental. The objective of sustainable development according to Edward Barbier 1987, is to maximize the goal in the three systems balancing tradeoff and setting proprieties among various goals. For sustainable development, the carrying capacity aspect is vital which could be defined as “the level of human activity an area can accommodate without the area deteriorating, the resident community being adversely affected or the quality of visitor experience declining”. 

The goal of environmental sustainability in urban settings is to reduce the detrimental impact of urbanization on ecosystems and resources. Reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, saving water, safeguarding natural ecosystems, and implementing sustainable waste management methods are all part of this. Sustainable transportation methods, such as encouraging public transportation, cycling, and walking, are also critical for reducing traffic congestion, air pollution, and dependency on fossil fuels. Social sustainability is concerned with the well-being and quality of life of city dwellers. It entails constructing inclusive and egalitarian cities that give all citizens with affordable housing, access to education, healthcare, and social services. Furthermore, cultivating cultural variety and guaranteeing safe and healthy communities are critical components of social sustainability. Economic sustainability is concerned with the development of healthy and resilient urban economies. This involves encouraging job development, assisting small firms, attracting investment, and encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship. Sustainable urban planning and development techniques strive to create mixed-use districts with a variety of services and possibilities, decreasing the need for long commutes and boosting the local economy ("Sustainable Urban Public Squares," 2015).

To achieve urban sustainability, collaboration and integrated approaches are necessary. This involves engaging multiple stakeholders, including city governments, residents, businesses, and civil society organizations. Urban sustainability strategies often involve comprehensive planning, policy development, and implementation of initiatives that address multiple aspects of sustainability simultaneously (Ferrer, Ana, 2018). 

1. Introduction and History of Pimbahal Pond

Similar to cities worldwide, Urban squares in South Asia, often integrate economic, religious, and communal functions within their architectural and urban settings. One such example is Pimbahal Square in Lalitpur, Nepal, a city known for its rich history and well-preserved medieval urban landscape.

Pimbahal Square is an example of how urban spaces blend cultural, social, and economic functions in South Asia. The historic city of Patan, also known as Lalitpur, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved Newar architecture and rich cultural heritage. Among the city’s various historical sites, Pimbahal Square holds a special place due to its central feature: Pimbahal Pond (Pimbahal Pokhari), an ancient water reservoir built in the 14th century to serve the community’s water needs. The pond has long been integral to the daily life of the locals and remains surrounded by historic temples, courtyards (bahals), and traditional residential buildings that showcase the deep-rooted cultural identity of the Newar people.

Fig. 1 Pimbahal Pokhari and area around it

2. Transformation of Pimbahal Pond

Despite Pimbahal’s cultural and historical significance, it has faced numerous challenges throughout its history. The 1934 Nepal Earthquake severely damaged the square, and in 1967, a proposal for market construction threatened its existence. By 2014, the site had fallen into neglect, and the 2015 Gorkha Earthquake further exacerbated its deterioration. However, a restoration initiative in 2017 revitalized Pimbahal, preserving its historical essence while ensuring its continued role as a central community space. Today, the square serves as a vibrant location for gatherings, cultural events, and a place of reflection on Patan's rich heritage. This revitalization highlights the importance of a balanced approach to urban development, one that addresses the cultural, environmental, and economic aspects of the site. While the improvements have bolstered the local economy and enhanced infrastructure, it is crucial to implement long-term sustainability strategies to preserve the square as a peaceful, culturally significant location for future generations (Tuladhar, 2001; K.C., 2017).

Historically, Pimbahal Pond has not only been a source of water but also a focal point for community rituals and social interactions. As with many ponds in the Kathmandu Valley, Pimbahal faced degradation due to rapid urbanization and environmental neglect (Tuladhar, 2001). However, its recent revitalization is part of broader conservation efforts within the region that aim to strike a balance between modern urban development and the preservation of heritage. The restoration has fostered the growth of local businesses, including cafes and restaurants, especially since 2020, mirroring a broader trend of economic revitalization through tourism and heritage site conservation (Bhattarai, 2019). While this economic growth is beneficial, concerns have emerged regarding the increasing visitor numbers and the potential impact on the site’s environmental quality, sustainability, and tranquility (Government of Nepal, 2018).

The physical transformation of Pimbahal has been profound over the years. A watercolor painting by Henri Ambrose Oldfield from 1852 depicts an open pati (resting place) located at the center of the pond, accessible via a bridge from the western side. After the 1934 earthquake, the pati was enclosed and repurposed as a library. Between 1934 and 1983, the pond was abandoned and became overgrown with vegetation, as shown in the historical images provided by Shrestha. It was not until 1998 that the pond was refilled, and the pati was reconstructed to reflect Oldfield’s original depiction. 

The Pimbahal Revitalization and Urban Preservation Project (PRUPP) brought further changes, replacing the high wall around the pond with a railing to improve the aesthetic view and paving the square and surrounding streets with stone. These changes marked a significant improvement in the area’s appearance and functionality. The ongoing transformation of Pimbahal can be traced through various historical photographs that highlight these structural shifts. Documents related to the PRUPP project emphasize the aim of restoring cultural and ecological balance to the area, improving both its aesthetic appeal and functional value (Shrestha, 2015; K.C., 2017).

Despite the significant cultural and historical importance of Pimbahal Square, it has faced ongoing challenges due to rapid urbanization, shifting land-use patterns, and environmental degradation. In recent years, revitalization efforts have attempted to find a balance between preserving the site's heritage, adapting to urban needs, and promoting community well-being. One of the positive outcomes has been economic revitalization, which has brought new opportunities for local businesses. However, concerns regarding environmental sustainability and the preservation of socio-cultural traditions continue to be important issues (K.C., 2017). Local scholars argue that while the cultural significance of the area has been preserved, the ongoing challenge is striking a balance between modernization and heritage conservation (Shrestha, 2015; Nepal Heritage Society, 2018).

The revitalization project, completed in 2017, focused on restoring the pond’s environmental and social functions while also promoting local economic development (Shrestha, 2015). This included cleaning the pond, improving the surrounding infrastructure, and introducing measures to encourage public engagement. The project not only revitalized the aesthetic appeal of Pimbahal but also made it a dynamic space for cultural activities, social interactions, and community events. As a result, there has been an increase in social interactions, with locals and visitors gathering around the pond for recreational activities and events. However, the growing influx of visitors and the modernization of the area have raised questions about the longterm sustainability of these changes (K.C., 2017; Shrestha, 2015).

Fig. 2 Transformation of Pimbahal Pokhari

Methodology

This study adopts a purposive sampling method to select participants, including local community members, historians, government officials, and experts in cultural preservation. Key informant interviews provided detailed insights into the restoration process, its challenges, and its wider impact on cultural heritage conservation. The data was analyzed thematically to identify common patterns related to the pond's restoration effects. The research also involved focus group discussions and community engagement to understand the social, economic, and cultural outcomes of restoring historic ponds in Nepal.

Interviews and questionnaires were used to evaluate the current situation at Pimbahal and assess the sustainability of postrestoration changes. Insights were gathered from visitors, local residents, consumers, and other key stakeholders impacted by the transformation. The study categorized the data into three core areas—economy, socio-culture, and environment—to analyze the broader effects of the revitalization on the community and the area.

Analysis and Discussions

Pimbahal, a historical and culturally significant location, has just experienced a substantial revival with the restoration of its namesake pond. The revitalization of Pimbahal Pond has significantly transformed the economic landscape of Pimbahal Square and its adjoining streets, leading to increased commercial activity, rising property values, and a shift in business dynamics. One of the most notable economic impacts is the sharp rise in rental prices for commercial spaces. Before the restoration, the average rent for a commercial unit was NRs. 5,000 per month, whereas post-revitalization, rents soared to NRs. 25,000–75,000 per month, reflecting increased demand and commercial viability. This surge has benefited property owners while also reshaping the composition of businesses in the area.

The business landscape has expanded and diversified, with food and beverage establishments dominating the commercial scene. Out of 257 surveyed shops, 60 are eateries, indicating a strong emphasis on leisure and dining. The central square alone hosts 21 restaurants and cafés, making it a primary social and economic hub. Additionally, a mix of grocery stores, fashion outlets, beauty parlors, and repair shops contribute to the area's vibrant retail ecosystem. The number of businesses has increased significantly since 2017, with a notable rise in establishments after 2020, following the COVID-19 pandemic. This suggests economic resilience and adaptation, with local businesses catering to shifting consumer needs. The introduction of Bed and Breakfast (B&B) accommodations highlights the growing role of domestic tourism in the local economy.

The visitor patterns at Pimbahal reveal that the evening is the most popular time for all age groups, making it a vibrant hub for community interaction and leisure. The 20-30 age group is the most frequent visitor, with a strong preference for daily visits, in particular for the tea/ coffee time. While the 30-40 age group shows moderate engagement. Older age groups (40-50 and above 50) visit less frequently. Transportation data highlights a strong inclination towards private vehicles, especially among the younger demographic, with public transportation and walking also contributing to visitor numbers. Pimbahal’s transformation into a bustling evening destination, driven by younger visitors, indicates its growing popularity as a dynamic social space. The diverse timing of visits and transportation options further underscores the area's accessibility and appeal across various demographics.

Pimbahal plays a significant role in Patan’s cultural landscape, serving as a key site for religious processions (Jatra) that highlight the city's unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. These processions have historically shaped the spatial and social organization of the city, with designated streets for different purposes—some for deities, others for the public, and some for funeral rites. Despite its deep-rooted cultural importance, Pimbahal is experiencing notable transformations due to modern influences and increasing public engagement.

Once a hub for local social events such as Kumari Puja, blood donation programs, weddings, and community gatherings, Pimbahal is now seeing a shift in its usage patterns. The increase in external visitors and commercial establishments, such as eateries and shops, has led to a decrease in local participation in traditional events. This shift mirrors broader changes in urban social behavior, where modernization and lifestyle changes are reshaping community interactions.

While Pimbahal continues to serve as a cultural center, the challenge lies in balancing public access with the preservation of local traditions. The restoration has brought improvements to the environment and local economy but also introduced new challenges. The influx of outsiders has altered the social dynamics, with traditional communal spaces increasingly occupied by tourists, disrupting local rituals and customs, especially during sacred ceremonies. Additionally, the rise in motorized traffic has raised concerns about pedestrian safety.

Ultimately, the restoration has created a complex situation, blending economic benefits with the need to preserve cultural heritage. Once-vibrant communal spaces have transformed into tourist attractions, highlighting the tension between heritage preservation and the evolving needs of the local community.

The revitalization of Pimbahal Pond has led to noticeable environmental transformations, impacting both the physical surroundings and socio-environmental dynamics. The onceneglected pond now serves as an ecological asset, improving air quality by increasing humidity levels and creating a cooler microclimate. However, the influx of visitors and commercial activity has introduced environmental challenges, particularly in terms of noise pollution, air pollution, and waste management.

Local authorities acknowledge the positive environmental impact of the pond’s revival but highlight issues related to traffic congestion and inadequate parking spaces, which disrupt the pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. The increased presence of motorcycles within the square contributes to both noise and air pollution, creating concerns among residents about safety and quality of life. Street vendors and shop owners, while benefiting from increased foot traffic, face difficulties in managing waste, particularly food waste from eateries, which accumulates due to irregular municipal collection schedules.

Residents within the square express mixed reactions to the changes. While they appreciate the improved aesthetics and cultural vibrancy, they also report experiencing a decline in privacy and a shift in social behavior. The crowding and commercialization have reduced the availability of peaceful open spaces, leading some residents to retreat indoors rather than utilizing the public realm. 

The transformation of the environment is closely linked to commercial growth, particularly in the food sector. Initial businesses were drawn to the area due to the improved surroundings, but a second wave of establishments emerged as the location evolved into a recognized food hub. This dual-phase commercial expansion has led to an increased burden on infrastructure, particularly in terms of waste management and sanitation. The presence of eateries and beverage shops results in higher organic waste production, with shop owners relying on personal disposal methods when municipal waste collection is unavailable.

Public perception of environmental changes varies across age groups. The 20-30 age demographic prioritizes vibrant commercial environments, with a preference for enhanced infrastructure. The 30-40 age group values improved environmental quality but also appreciates moderate commercial activity. The 40-50 age group is most concerned with historical and cultural significance, while the 50+ demographic shows a relatively lower level of preference across all factors, with a slight inclination towards emerging food hubs. These findings indicate that environmental improvements have influenced commercial attractiveness, but the balance between economic growth and ecological sustainability remains a key concern. Also, this highlights the community's deep preference for open spaces, emphasizing the importance of leisure and relaxation areas, along with ample parking for convenience. The Pati and pond areas become lively, resonating with guitar music and a shared sense of enjoyment, transforming Pimbahal into a dynamic, vibrant hub.

Initially undertaken to enhance the surroundings and improve the economic status of the community, the revival has triggered urban resurgence by fostering better public spaces, increasing social interactions, and stimulating local businesses. The impact has extended beyond the immediate vicinity, influencing adjacent streets and gradually reshaping the urban fabric. Environmental improvements were evident early on, followed by gradual social engagement, while economic growth took time to manifest. After 2020 AD, with the rise of restaurants and cafés around the square, the ripple effect was notably seen in surrounding streets, particularly in streets 3 and 4, where increased commercial activities have led to rising rental values and business growth.

The financial landscape of Pimbahal has since evolved, with rental hikes and commercial establishments driving economic prosperity. Revenue streams have diversified, encompassing housing rentals, parking fees, vendor stalls, and recreational activities such as boating and fish-related businesses. The emergence of Pimbahal as a food hub has further fueled economic momentum, attracting younger visitors and benefiting both shop owners and the local economy.

Despite these economic gains, the revival has also brought significant environmental and social challenges. Previously neglected spaces used for waste disposal have been transformed into an attractive pond area, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the neighborhood. However, the increased popularity of the site has inadvertently led to environmental concerns. The influx of younger visitors, particularly those traveling by motorcycle, has necessitated additional parking, leading to congestion and diminishing the scenic charm of the pond. This increase in traffic has also disrupted the peaceful atmosphere of the community, with concerns over noise pollution, crowding, and social disturbances, particularly during nighttime. While commercial growth has strengthened the local economy, the accompanying rise in parking demands and urban activity has negatively impacted the environmental quality of the area.

Water resource management has also improved as a result of the pond revival. The water table in the surrounding area has risen, recharging around 7 to 8 wells and addressing previous waterscarcity issues for the local community. Additionally, the revitalization has encouraged property owners to invest in maintenance and improvements, leading to an overall enhancement in the neighborhood’s infrastructure and aesthetics. However, while the project has preserved cultural heritage and instilled a sense of pride among residents, it has also altered traditional social dynamics. Before the restoration, Pimbahal primarily served as a communal space for local interactions, where residents frequently gathered around patis, temples, and stupas for daily activities and religious practices. Post-revival, the influx of outsiders has significantly changed this dynamic, limiting the accessibility of these spaces for locals. Many residents feel displaced as their once-intimate communal areas have turned into internal tourism hubs, reducing their ability to conduct traditional events without disruptions.

The growing presence of visitors unfamiliar with local customs has also posed challenges to cultural traditions. During religious ceremonies and pujas, a lack of awareness and respect from outsiders has created discomfort for locals, with issues such as motorcycles passing through sacred rituals and disrupting the sanctity of the space. These disruptions highlight the difficulties of balancing tourism and cultural preservation in urban heritage sites. The analysis of Pimbahal’s transformation reveals that economic considerations have taken precedence over environmental, social, and cultural aspects, making the area unstable across the three pillars of sustainability. While public spaces continue to play a crucial role in urban life by fostering social connections, the case of Pimbahal illustrates the complex interplay between heritage conservation, shifting community dynamics, and modern urban influences. Although economic benefits have been realized, they have come with challenges that require careful management to ensure the long-term sustainability of the area.

This analysis highlights the complex interplay of urban revitalization, where economic gains must be balanced with cultural preservation and all the three parameters of sustainability (Calculation see at annex). While Pimbahal's revival has created a thriving urban space, careful planning is necessary to mitigate its negative impacts and ensure long-term sustainability.

From an urban design perspective, the environmental transformation of Pimbahal reflects both progress and emerging challenges. The revitalization of the pond has successfully enhanced the physical and social environment, yet the evolving commercial landscape necessitates sustainable urban management strategies. The increasing demand for parking, the rise in waste production, and the diminishing public-private balance highlight the need for integrated planning approaches. The interactions between revitalization efforts, community engagement, and environmental sustainability form a complex framework that requires continuous monitoring to ensure the long-term viability of Pimbahal’s urban ecosystem. The revival of Pimbahal’s heritage infrastructure has triggered a multidimensional transformation, encompassing environmental, social, and economic aspects.

Fig. 3 Rent range after the revitalization of the area

Fig. 4 Timeline of shop openings around Pimbahal: business trends over the years

Fig. 5 Time-Based age distribution of visitors in Pimbahal

Fig. 6 Movement patterns in Pimbahal: mode of travel by different age groups and time of day

Fig. 7 Routes for the different types of religious processions

Fig. 8 Vibrancy throughout the day: Pimbahal’s revitalized space becomes a hub for community interaction, from peaceful mornings to lively evenings.

Fig. 9 Factors attracting different age groups to Pimbahal

Fig. 10 Eco- Socio- Cultural- environment relationship with sustainability

Conclusion

The revitalization of heritage infrastructure, such as Pimbahal in Patan, Nepal, exemplifies the complex interconnections between environmental sustainability, social well-being, and economic prosperity. As cities worldwide face the dual challenge of modern urbanization and heritage conservation, Pimbahal's restoration highlights the importance of a balanced approach to heritage revitalization. While such projects often stimulate economic growth and community pride, they also bring to light the need to address the potential negative impacts on the social and environmental fabric of the area.

Pimbahal's transformation is a clear example of how heritage sites can serve as powerful catalysts for urban revitalization. The gradual economic growth observed around Pimbahal, driven by increased tourism and local business development, mirrors trends seen in other historic cities globally. However, the rapid commercialization and influx of visitors have raised concerns about the sustainability of these changes. The challenge of maintaining the site's cultural identity and environmental health, while capitalizing on its economic potential, reflects broader global conversations about the impact of heritage tourism on local communities and ecosystems.

In the case of Pimbahal, the economic success resulting from its revitalization has at times overshadowed the equally crucial need for environmental preservation and social inclusivity. As the economic pillar becomes increasingly dominant, the social and environmental aspects of the area risk being sidelined, undermining long-term sustainability. The situation in Pimbahal serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of implementing strategies that promote balance. Such strategies might include the designation of heritage zones, pedestrianfriendly designs, and traffic regulations to protect both the area’s cultural integrity and its environmental health.

Globally, the balance between economic growth and heritage conservation remains a critical area of focus. The Pimbahal case underscores the importance of integrated, sustainable development strategies that prioritize the well-being of local communities and the preservation of their cultural heritage. As cities worldwide navigate similar challenges, the need for effective planning, community engagement, and sustainable practices has never been more urgent. International examples of successful heritage revitalization provide valuable lessons in creating synergies between economic growth and cultural preservation.

Looking ahead, further research is needed to explore how heritage sites like Pimbahal can continue to thrive without compromising the integrity of their communities or environments. This research should focus on sustainable tourism practices, environmental preservation strategies, community involvement, and governance structures that support equitable development. Drawing lessons from both local and global case studies will help inform future conservation efforts, ensuring that heritage revitalization becomes a truly sustainable process that benefits all facets of society. In conclusion, the Pimbahal experience, while rooted in Nepal's unique cultural context, offers insights and lessons for global heritage conservation practices and urban development strategies.