Historic Ashoka pillar in Buddha’s birthplace Kapilvastu submerged in flood water

Of the three historic Ashoka pillars in Kapilvastu, one is at risk of losing its importance. The Ashoka Pillar located at Gotihawa VDC in Kapilvastu is almost submerged in flood water.

The pillar was erected by the then Indian Emperor Ashoka marking the birthplace of Krakuchchanda Buddha.

Almost all the portion of the 11-feet high pillar has been submerged in water for the past one month. Only one foot of the pillar is above water, according to state-owned news agency RSS.

The pillar is at risk of extinction due to the inundation. But, it is not the first time that the pillar is swamped. According to the locals, the pillar is usually inundated during the rainy season.

According to archeological officer at the Lumbini Development Trust (LDT), Krishna Bahadur KC the pillar may break into pieces due to frequent submergence. Inscriptions on the pillar have been fading way due to lack of proper conservation, it is learnt. nepalnews.com