Khwopa Engineering College

Affiliated to Purbanchal University

Libali, Bhaktapur

Existing View

Proposed Designed

POKHARA AIRPORT REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT

Submitted By
Submitted To Neeru Shilpakar (07607)
Prof. Dr. Mohan Moorti Pant Reshma Dumaru (07610)
Ar. Biresh Shah Sudip Nepal (07614)
Design Studio II
Master in Urban Design and Conservation

Date: - 2022/04/10
Introduction
Pokhara is the capital of Gandaki Province of Nepal. It is the largest metropolitan city in terms of
area and the second-largest in terms of population 458,000 (Census 2021) increasing 4.33% from
2021 in Nepal. With this growth rate the population of Pokhara will be around 7 lakhs in the year
2035, it is located about 200 kilometers west of the capital, Kathmandu with an altitude range of
827 meters to 1,740 meters. It has 33 Wards having a geographical area of 464.24 Sq. KM.
Pokhara, especially the Phewa Lake area,
is known for its panoramic views of
Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and, Lamjung
Himalayan ranges and the renowned
temples, monasteries, and pagodas, lakes,
and adventure sports center. Because of
these features, it has been considered the
most beautiful destination for tourists in
the world. On the other side, the natural
beauty and tourism-based economic
development and prosperity have led to
rapid migration and population growth in
the past decade.
Pokhara has become a major tourist
destination, and tourism’s contribution to
the local and national economy is
expected to increase with the opening of
a new international airport, scheduled for Figure 1: Pokhara Map (source: PMC)
completion soon in the year 2022.
Due to its exposure to natural hazards and high population density, Western Nepal is considered
one of the most disaster-prone regions, and the city of Pokhara is particularly vulnerable to
earthquakes and floods, with the Seti Gandaki River running through the city.
Pokhara is the only place in the world where you can experience the magnitude of the magnificent
views of 8,000m snowcapped peaks while sitting below in a subtropical climate of 1,000m. There
are lots of museums, medieval temples and monasteries to visit

History
Nepal’s second-largest city has long been a part of essential ancient trade routes, between India
and Tibet, Kathmandu, and Jumla. From medieval times it was part of the Kaski Kingdom, Pokhara
was inhabited mostly by the Khas people, who are now known across Nepal by 300 different caste
surnames, or more. Many of the Gurung and Magar communities later migrated from the high
Himalayan foothills when the British set up an army recruitment camp in Pokhara, where Gurkha
soldiers are still being recruited today. In the late 1950s, an influx of Tibetan refugees added to the
ethnically and culturally diverse Pokhara city.
 Historically, Pokhara in the 18th and 20th centuries was a trade route between India,
Tibet, and China.
 The Newar people from Bhaktapur and Bandipur moved to Pokhara for trading in the
18th century and established businesses in the old town of Pokhara.
 The establishment of the British Recruitment Camp in the 20th century further enhanced
the accumulation of the Gurung and Magar community.
 4 of the 12 Tibetan refugee camps (Jampaling, Paljorling, Tashi Ling, and Tashi Palkhiel)
were installed in Pokhara to accommodate the massive flow of refugees coming from Tibet
in the 1950s and 60s. Chhetri (1990),
 In 1952 Construction of the sunauli-Pokhara Highway.
 In 1958 construction of Pokhara Domestics airport.
 The establishment of the tourism information center in 1961 and the formulation of the
sketch of the physical development plan became milestones.
 Completion of the Siddhartha Highway in 1968 had connected Pokhara with the outer
world flows of tourists started to increase gradually.
 Between 1959 and 1962, about 3 hundred thousand Tibetan exiles came to Nepal. They
built Buddhist monasteries and began to establish their culture, which now has become
the attraction of Pokhara, especially in Tibetan Refugee Camps.
 In 1974 Completion of the Prithivi highway.
 In 1990 Construction of baglung Pokhara highway.
 1990s tourism flourish through different development activities, treks, etc.
 In 1993, Asia Development Bank was involved in building some infrastructure-related
development work.
 From 2007 onwards Added positioning and popularity of Pokhara with the organization of
mega-event Visit Pokhara Year 2007 as an entry and existing point to newly explored
trekking routes like Machhapuchhre Model trek, Millennium trek, Mardi Himal Trek, etc.
 In 2022 Pokhara regional international airport and as a destination to view and get involved
in several annual scheduled events/activities like rice planting festival, New Year Festival,
Street festival, international paragliding championship, winter trekking camp, triathlon
championship, etc.
A study by Frechette (2002) shows that since 1989 every year about 2500 Tibetans illegally
enter Nepal and they used Pokhara as a transit to India.
Pokhara has passed through several interventions for its development from the perspective of
tourism. Nepal’s first and the only tourism master plan in 1972 which had mentioned the
importance of tourism, highlighted the traditional designs, materials, and height limits of buildings
in Pokhara, and recommended its strategic position with the regional concept. Tourism was looked
at as a potential sector for the socio-economic development of Pokhara from the very beginning.
Growth and investment are reflected in the many hotels, restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops that
now line the Lakeside strip and run for several kilometers.
Climate and seasons
The climate of Pokhara is warmer than its surrounding hills and Kathmandu due to its lower
elevation at 800m the winters are dry and very pleasant the monsoon months wet with tropical-
style storms and humidity. The weather in springtime can be volatile as the monsoon approaches
and it is known as the hot season. Days are very hot and often after days of high temperatures there
can be violent rain and hail storms that end as quickly as they begin with brilliant sunsets and cloud
formations. While the countryside is brown after the long dry season, flowers start to bloom as the
rainfall increases towards June

Site study
Pokhara airport is a domestic airport serving Pokhara in Nepal. The airport was established on 4
July 1958 by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). It offers regular connections
to Kathmandu and Jomsom; and seasonal connections to Manang. This Pokhara airport will be
replaced by Nepal’s third international airport, Pokhara International Airport in 2022. The site has
an area of 510500sqm/ 51.05 ha which is located at the center of the Pokhara at ward no. 7. The
site has a 1.2 km run way length.

Figure 2: Study Area with Road Network

 Figure 3: Exiting Neighborhood Settlement pattern of the area

Objective of the study

 To study the existing land use pattern and verify its issues and potential.
 To redevelop Pokhara Domestic Airport as a city center with mixed compact and vibrant
development of the area for its surrounding settlements.
 To redevelop the area in such a way that the area meets the needs of the city and its people
in planned ways so, as to prevent unnecessary development at the site.

Methodology
 Site study
In the initial phase, the importance of the site was studied. Different related articles, journals,
case studies, and books were reviewed about the city area and regarding the possibility of
redevelopment of the site. Different features of the city including history, geography,
socioeconomic status, and different aspects were discussed and reviewed. After having the
concept of the city the site visit was done with the professors. During the site visit, different
surrounding locations were inspected. To further understand the potential development of the
area and the context of the city. We have a healthy discussion with the different stakeholders
and inhabitants of the area. Different stakeholders include the Municipalities representatives,
 engineers, officers, and the consultant team who are working on the planning and strategies of
the Pokhara municipality. The possible need and necessities of the site and city area were
observed. It includes the collection of physical data from the existing setting of the study area.

A survey was also conducted via Google map and cadastral map to collect data about the
current problems and potential of the area

 Data analysis
The data and information collected from the field study were analyzed to determine the issues
and problems of the site and determine their suitable solution. Further discussion was carried
out with the Pulchowk professors and different stakeholders, inhabitants of the Pokhara on the
opportunities and constraints of the sites. The relevant case study was also carried out in
international projects.

 Outcome
Based on the results of the Data Analysis and discussion a design for the redevelopment of the
Pokhara old airport was prepared. This was then combined with the findings and results of the
previous stages to compile the final report and prepare a presentation along with a scaled model
of the site and the proposed design.

Needs/Requirements
After the construction of the new regional international airport in Pokhara, the old airport will not
be used and the land used by the airport will be vacant. It is necessary to prevent encroachment
and pressure from the land mafia. Pokhara Airport Office, CAAN, and the Ministry of Tourism
and Civil Aviation are undecided about what to do with the prime real estate. Such expensive
property in the middle of the city cannot go waste. Different stakeholders, high-level authorities,
politicians, and legislators have eyes on cashing in on the national property. Different
stakeholders and civil society want to keep the airport as an open space as it is an integral part of
the community and a city is urbanizing fast and losing its greenery. Pokhara’s current airport
should not be abandoned like other closed airfields across the country. It is an opportunity to
enhance the beauty of the city and can be used in the public interest and benefits after having
appropriate research and discussion with the local representatives and people.
Issues and problems of the site
 Expensive property in the middle of the city where different groups of people want to be
utilized as per their interests.
 Lack of connectivity between the two sides of the Seti River.
 Site is located near the existing bus park and bus park area is insufficient.
 Area has a long elongated ground used as a runway length for the airplane.
 There is not enough open space in the area for different activities.
  Encroachment of area by the squatter settlement along the Seti river bank
 Center of the city should have some major landmarks which the site is that the site lacks
the site after the discussions are as follows:
 Open space as a park
 Convention center
 Hotel complex
 Municipal administrative complex
 Aircraft Display
 Museum
 Plaza
 Shops
 service for domestic flights and
 sports aviation
Design Proposal
After having multiple discussions with the different stakeholders, the inhabitants of the city, the
professors, and the needs and demands of the city area the concept design for the site were
developed. At the initial stage, the possible concept design was developed with the different
options analyzing their strengths, opportunities, and area of improvement. After having a broad
level of discussion we were able to refine our final design concept which will be more based on
the people’s needs and the city’s demands which will benefit the inhabitants of the city of
Pokhara.
Concept
 To extend the major existing axis to have proper connectivity between the exiting settlement
and the site area. As the site is located at the center of the city and has poor connectivity with
the existing settlement. Easy access to the existing area will help the area to be more vibrant
and will be a part of the settlement.
 To develop the area by preserving the runway of the airport. This will prevent the essence of
the area and the runway will have a pedestrian walking zone which will encourage people to
walk and enjoy the area.
 Major focus was given to the nodal area to create a lively environment. The nodal area has
to be lively to have a vibrant community. People need to have proper access to the nodal
zone.
 To maintain a buffer zone at the Seti river bank and adjust the slump settlement in our design
concept. As the design concept has also covered the slump area which is close to the Seti
river bank. The settlement is in a prone area if not considered timely many people can lose
their life even during a small disaster.
 To create open space along the highway which is more demand of the city. As the open space
in the city area is decreasing. The well-equipped open space where the people can enjoy and
do recreational activities. The park will be along the Siddhartha highway where all the people
have easy access and enjoy the park.
 To develop the area as a mixed-use development where the area will have a variety of
opportunities to use the developed area which will have a self-financial surviving capacity.

Figure 5 : Conceptual Design Development of the area

Figure 5: Design Concept for area and road

Master plan

Figure 6: Master plan of the site

The master plan consists of the commercial/ Business area which is along the main axis. The
extension of the bus park as the bus park space was not well managed. The bus park is
extended nearby the existing bus park. The residential quarter with the primary school has
been designed. Convention centers and museums were also included in the design. The
natural terrains are maintained wherever possible and some parts of the design are even
guided by them. In considering the land price compact development has been designed to
fully utilize the area. The park along the highway has been developed.
Figure 7: 3D view of the master plan
 Open space (park)

Open space as a park is an integral part of the families and the communities. The park will be along the site
area which will be parallel to the Siddhartha Highway. Park will have easy access and will be utilized by all
groups of people from children to old people. Open spaces have been decreased drastically due to rapid
urbanization and the growth of infrastructure. There is a necessity for proper open space with proper
infrastructure to improve the quality of urban life and the livelihood of the local people. The park will contain
different amenities such as a playing court, jogging space, resting place, gymnasium space, and a place to
watch and enjoy other activities, restaurants food stall etc. The park will be enjoyed by the traveling people
along the Siddhartha Highway.

Figure 8 : Park Design concept

A park with well-equipped and managed infrastructure
where the people of any age can enjoy the park. The park
will have the multiple function which can be used for
different purposes. The park can be used during the
disasters as open space. Different amenities water
supply and toilet facilities and presence of other
infrastructure with the easy access as the core
competence of the park. The park will be safe as it will
be visible from all side. The people using commercial
area also can enjoy the park. The park will be green all
around and the water elements to give the natural feel.
A park will have a parking area and a restaurant for the people. Area for a community gardens
in parks which can be utilized by the local residents, businesses and schools. Will be more
Flexible and spontaneous use of space for different purposes. Space is designed at a differential
level addressing the natural terrain
Convention center

Convention center will have a capacity around 1500 people and will have a proper facilities for
parking. The design will be built in the typical Newari traditional style. The convention center
can be used for conducting meetings, rallies, or seminars. It may also be adapted for specific
events, such as appearances by well-known speakers or musicians. It will have a underground
parking facilities for around 400 vehicle.
 Museums

A design include museum which will used to

display different cultural, traditions, arts
historical or scientific importance of the
Pokhara city. People will have a clear image
of the city regarding its history and many
more culture in short period of time.
Moreover, a museum will also have a demo
houses of different ethnic group of people of
Pokhara city. These demo houses can be used
for residence purpose. The houses will be
built in traditional ways to represent their
culture and way of living and uses the locally
available materials to construct these houses.
Commercial/ business hub

Commercial area will along the main

axis of the design and is located at the
center along the length. The
commercial will have 4 big block
which will be 4 storied in height and
a central courtyard. This commercial
area will be the main focus of the
design and will help to sustain the
area. A commercial will have also
water element in the front a pleasant
environment and view. All the vehicle
will be park at the underground of the
commercial area and have a front
parking for a short period of time.
The building will be connected at the
first floor and can be used for
different activities. People can have a
clear view of the park from the
buildings.
Residential Quarters

A Design includes a residential

 No area will be developed without the
people and people needs to be at the heart
of the area so that the area would be more
vibrant and safe.
 Considering the rapid population growth to
meets the future housing demands we have
allocated space for the housing units.
 300 people per hector density has been
taken which will have a 600 dwelling units
and 500 dwelling unit has been developed
for squatter settlements.(478nSquatter
settlement)
 Area should be developed for all, some part
of the housing will be used for the squatter
settlement.
 Despite having a high land prices,
incorporating the settlement for the
squatter (includes the most disadvantages,
homeless and indigenous group of people)
then it would be a good message to the
people.
 A residential units have a hierarchy of open
spaces. A space for temples and other
traditional activities. Patis, sattal will also
be there.
 There would also be an elementary school
for the residential households.
 Will have proper light and ventilation.
Bus Park

The design concept will have a bus park as the

extension of the existing bus park. As the
existing bus park is not enough and is
unmanaged in the site. Considering this issues
the design includes the bus park. It will have an
approximate area of 8.3 hectare with all the
amenities needed for the bus park. It will have
4 compartments i.e. first compartment will have
the area for the intercity bus and taxiways.
Second compartment will have area for the
ticket counter building and the central space
where the people can have an easy access.
Different space allotted for the loading and
offloading of the passengers in the design
concept. Third compartment will consists of the
supporting amenities such as service centers
for vehicles, public toilets and water supply,
shops, police stations, clinics, petrol pump and
charging stations, space for people to wait,
restaurants, etc. finally, the fourth
compartment will have a main block where the
underground and the ground floor is used for
the parking of the long route buses. The upper
floor will e used for commercial activities. The
terminal buildings will have a accommodation
facilities for the bus staff and administrative
staffs for night halt.
Conclusion
Pokhara valley is filled with majestic beauty. A graceful place with abundance beauty of
Annapurna Himalayan Range whose reflection can be seen on Phewa Lake. Pokhara is the perfect
place to relax and recharge after traveling the mountain roads.
It is a huge opportunity for the people of Pokhara to redevelop the old airport located at the center
of the city which will be their weapon to change their economy. This can be a very tough job to
give a design proposal in this area that will benefit the people and meet the demand of the city. As
this area has been eye-catching national property for different stakeholders, high-level authorities,
politicians, and legislators to fulfill their own interests.
After having a broad level of discussion with different concerned stakeholders and through
different international case studies the design has been proposed which will be more beneficial for
the people and the city’s demands. The design proposal has focused to address the people’s needs.
The design will include a well-managed open space as a park with different infrastructure and will
be used for multi-purpose activities. A convention center which has a capacity of more than 1500
people where the different activities such as seminars, musical shows, speech conferences can be
conducted. A museum where people can have a glance at the Pokhara city cultures, traditions,
history with a model house with accommodation facilities. The commercial area will help to
sustain the design. It will be for all people to have a different commercial activity. A residential
unit with 300 people per hectare has been proposed which will have above 1000 dwelling units. A
pond’s water element for the aesthetic view. The area of the squatter settlement has been taken and
developed as a park to create the buffer zone between the Seti River and the site area. The 478
squatter settlement will also be included in our design and finally the well-managed bus park for
the city and the long route bus.
This proposed design will help to make an area more vibrant and will be used by all the people of
the city. The design will be the mix and compact development of the area considering the land
values which will meet the city’s demands and will benefit the people of the Pokhara.
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