Reinforce Nepal

Friday, May 16, 2025

समसमायिक - तृतीय पत्र - ( 2080-12-22 )

Thursday, May 15, 2025

Can You Build a House Without an Engineer? Let’s Find Out

Introduction: A Question Many Are Asking

In many parts of Nepal, especially villages and small towns, one common question comes up again and again:

"Ghar ta mistri le banauchha ni, engineer kina chahinchha?"

Which means — "The mason builds the house, why do we need an engineer?"

It sounds simple. After all, you see houses being built every day without any engineer. So the question is fair. But let’s dive deep and really understand — can you build a house without an engineer? And what might happen if you do?

Meet Hari: A Common Man With a Common Dream

Let me tell you a short story. Hari is a 35-year-old man from Nuwakot. He works abroad in Qatar and sends money back home. After years of saving, he finally decided to build his dream house in his village.

He called his uncle who knows a local mason. The mason said, “I’ve built 50 houses. Engineer ko ke kaam? Blueprint bhaye pugcha.”

Hari agreed and they started building. No structural drawing, no load calculation, no soil test. Just faith in the mason’s experience.

Two years later, a small earthquake shook the area. Cracks appeared in the walls. Rainwater started leaking from the slab. A government officer visited and told him, “This house is unsafe for your family.”

Hari had to rebuild a part of his house. He spent almost 50% more than he had planned.

Now, Hari says:
“Engineer lagako bhaye, yo sabai dukha huna thiena.”

What Does an Engineer Actually Do?

Before we answer whether you need one, let’s understand what an engineer does when it comes to building a house:

1. Structural Safety

Engineers calculate how much load your house will carry — walls, roof, furniture, people, earthquake forces — and make sure your columns, beams, and foundation are strong enough.

2. Cost Efficiency

Engineers help reduce waste of materials. If you overuse steel or cement, it’s extra cost. If you underuse, it’s dangerous. Engineers give a balance.

3. Future-Proofing

Engineers think long-term. What if you want to add another floor after 5 years? What if heavy rainfall increases? They plan ahead.

4. Following Building Codes

Nepal has National Building Codes (NBC) and local municipality rules. An engineer helps make sure your home follows these laws, so you don’t get legal trouble later.

Why Do People Avoid Hiring Engineers?

Still, many people skip engineers. Why? Here are the common reasons:

“Too Expensive”

People think engineers charge a lot. But in reality, the cost of hiring an engineer is just 2-5% of the total construction cost — and it saves much more in the long run.

“Local Mason Has Experience”

Yes, mistri has experience. But experience + engineering = best result. Experience alone can miss hidden problems, especially in earthquake-prone areas.

“Engineer Only Gives Drawing”

This is a misunderstanding. A good engineer gives drawings plus site visits, material advice, and safety tips.

The Hidden Risks of Skipping an Engineer

Here are real dangers of building without engineering help:

Foundation May Sink: If soil is not checked, your house can settle unevenly.
Cracks and Leaks: Wrong concrete mix, bad reinforcement leads to long-term damage.
Earthquake Damage: Without proper design, houses can collapse in quakes like 2015.
Legal Issues: Municipalities can stop your construction or deny completion certificate.

"Ghar banako jhan dukha paune bhaye, tyo ghar ko ke meaning?"

What’s the Cost of a Mistake?

Let’s break it down simply.

Mistake	Cost	Long-Term Effect
No soil test	Rs. 5,000 saved	Cracks and foundation damage worth Rs. 2 lakh later
Under-designed column	Rs. 10,000 saved	Unsafe structure; possible collapse in quake
Overuse of steel	Rs. 30,000 extra	Wastage due to lack of design calculation
Leaky slab	Rs. 15,000 saved	Rs. 50,000 for repair later

Engineer vs Mason: Not Enemies, But a Team

Let’s be clear — mistri (mason) is not bad. In fact, they are the hands, and engineers are the brains. Both are needed.

You can think of it like this:

“Doctor le prescription dinchha, nurse le injection dinchha.”
"Doctor gives the prescription, nurse gives the injection."

Both work together. Same for building a house — mason and engineer should work as a team.

How Much Does an Engineer Really Cost?

A rough idea for a normal 2.5 storey house (25x40 ft):

Structural Design: Rs. 15,000 – Rs. 40,000
Architectural Design: Rs. 10,000 – Rs. 25,000
Supervision (Optional): Rs. 2,000 – Rs. 5,000 per visit

So, for a house of Rs. 35 lakh, the design cost is less than 3%. But it can save you 10–20% in construction and future maintenance.

Simple Signs That You Need an Engineer

You’re building more than one storey
You’re planning to rent the house
The house is near a river or sloped area
You’re using RCC (concrete and rebar) structure
You want safety in earthquake and flood

If any of these is “Yes” — get an engineer.

Some Common Myths: Busted

Myth: “Engineer will complicate things.”

Truth: They simplify it and explain things in layman’s terms.

Myth: “Engineer le paisa matra khanchha.”

Truth: They help you save money through planning.

Myth: “Local design is enough.”

Truth: Local masons often copy old designs without checking soil or load conditions.

Nepali Quotes for Home Builders

Here are some wise Nepali lines to remember:

“Ghar banauchhau, sapana ho — sabai kura janchera banau.”
(You are building your dream — do it carefully.)

“Engineer ma lagani gareko paisa, bhukampa ma jivan bachauchha.”
(The money spent on an engineer can save lives during an earthquake.)

“Heri heri baneko ghar, bhari bhari jhundincha.”
(A house built just by guessing can collapse under real pressure.)

Conclusion: So, Can You Build Without an Engineer?

Technically, yes. But should you? Absolutely not.

A house is not just four walls — it is your family’s safety, your life’s savings, your future generations’ shelter.

An engineer doesn’t just draw lines on paper. They give strength to your walls, stability to your dreams, and peace of mind when nature shakes the ground.

So next time you or someone you know says:

“Engineer kina chahinchha?”
You can say:

“Kinabhane ghar jiwan bhari basne thau ho, tyo guess garera banauchha?”

What Does the Data Say? Are People Actually Hiring Engineers?

You might be thinking, “If everyone builds without an engineer, maybe it’s okay?”

But let’s look at what the numbers say.

According to the National Population and Housing Census 2021 (published by Nepal's Central Bureau of Statistics), only around 20% of newly built houses in Nepal were constructed with the help of a licensed engineer.

That means a huge 80% of homes were built without any engineering oversight.

This is even more common in rural and semi-urban areas where people mostly depend on local masons and community knowledge. While these local experts are hardworking and experienced, they don’t always understand the science behind structure — like how much load a beam can carry, or what kind of soil needs what kind of foundation.

So what happens?

Cracks appear after 2–3 years
Rain leaks through ceilings
Houses suffer major damage during earthquakes
People spend extra lakhs doing repairs later

The sad part is, many of these problems could be avoided with just a few consultations with an engineer.

“Engineer ma lagani gareko paisa, bhukampa ma jivan bachauchha.”
(The money spent on an engineer can save lives during an earthquake.)

So if you’re thinking, “I’ll skip the engineer like others,” remember — majority doesn’t always mean safety.

What Should You Do Now?

If you're planning to build:

Contact a licensed civil engineer from your area
Ask for structural + architectural designs
Discuss supervision or at least one-time consultation
Follow NBC guidelines
Work together with your mason and engineer

Retrofitting vs. Reconstruction: What’s the Best Option for Nepal’s Old Buildings?

Nepal, with its deep-rooted history and unique architectural styles, is home to many old buildings that are not just structures, but pieces of our heritage.

However, the frequent earthquakes and environmental challenges have made us face a hard question: should we retrofit (strengthen) these buildings, or should we reconstruct them entirely? Both methods have their pros and cons, and the choice depends on the situation.

Let's break it down with some real-life examples and a bit of Nepali wisdom.

Case Study 1: The Story of Maya Niwas

Background

Maya Niwas is a beautiful 100-year-old Newar house located in the heart of Patan. Built with brick, mud mortar, and adorned with intricate wooden carvings, it’s more than just a house—it’s home to generations of the Joshi family. Over the years, this house has seen festivals, weddings, and many memorable moments.

However, the 2015 earthquake caused significant damage to Maya Niwas. Cracks appeared in the walls, the door frames became slanted, and the overall structure weakened. The Joshi family faced a tough decision: should they retrofit the house or rebuild it entirely?

What is Retrofitting?

Retrofitting means making changes to an existing structure to strengthen it and improve its earthquake resistance. This could include:

Adding steel supports to reinforce wooden beams.
Using materials like cement grout to fill cracks and strengthen the walls.
Installing base isolators, which absorb seismic shocks and protect the structure.

Why Retrofitting Was the Right Choice for Maya Niwas:

Preserving the Heritage: As the Nepali saying goes, "पुरानो घर, पुराना सपनाहरू" (Old houses, old dreams). Maya Niwas wasn’t just a building; it was part of the family’s legacy. Retrofitting allowed them to keep the house’s original charm and cultural value intact.
Cost-Effective: Rebuilding the house would have been much more expensive. Retrofitting was a more affordable solution.
Faster Fix: Rather than demolishing and rebuilding, retrofitting could be completed in a few months, saving time and resources.
Environmentally Friendly: Retrofitting causes less waste since the building is not being demolished.

Challenges of Retrofitting:

If the foundation was too weak, retrofitting alone wouldn’t have been enough.
There’s limited space to add new features, such as extra rooms or floors.
Older materials sometimes don’t respond well to modern reinforcements.

Case Study 2: Reconstruction of Dharahara Tower

On the other hand, we have Dharahara, the iconic tower in Kathmandu. It was completely destroyed during the 2015 earthquake. In this case, retrofitting wasn’t an option because the damage was too severe. The government decided to rebuild the tower from scratch.

What is Reconstruction?

Reconstruction means demolishing a building and rebuilding it with new materials like concrete and steel, while adhering to modern standards, such as earthquake-resistant designs.

Why Reconstruction Was the Best Option for Dharahara:

Safety First: A new structure with modern engineering techniques ensures that the tower will withstand future earthquakes.
Modern Features: The new Dharahara includes better facilities, like improved ventilation and better structural integrity.
Customizable Layouts: Reconstruction allows the design to be adapted to current needs, such as better accessibility or more space.

Challenges of Reconstruction:

Cultural Loss: The original craftsmanship of Dharahara was unique. Rebuilding it meant sacrificing some of its cultural essence.
Cost: Reconstruction is costly, especially when you need to bring in new materials and labor.
Time: It takes years to rebuild a landmark like Dharahara, while retrofitting could have been quicker.

2025 Government Updates on Retrofitting and Reconstruction in Nepal

After the devastating 2015 earthquake, the government set up the National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) to guide the rebuilding efforts. According to the latest data in 2025:

9,682 households in earthquake-hit districts need complete reconstruction, while 6,624 households require retrofitting[1].
The government has allocated Rs. 101 billion for disaster-related reconstruction, including repairs from both earthquakes and floods[1].
In terms of financial support, the government offers Rs. 500,000 for mountain regions, Rs. 400,000 for hilly areas, and Rs. 300,000 for Terai districts[1].
The NRA has also published a Repair and Retrofitting Manual to guide engineers and homeowners[2].
Bagmati Province, which has faced the worst flood damage, is a major focus for reconstruction efforts[1].

Comparing Costs and Feasibility in Nepal

Factor	Retrofitting	Reconstruction
Cost	Lower (focused on repairs)	Higher (new materials & labor)
Time	Few months	Years
Safety	Improved, but depends on condition	Guaranteed with modern techniques
Cultural Value	Preserved	Can lose authenticity
Environmental Impact	Low waste, sustainable	High waste from demolition

The government encourages retrofitting for heritage buildings, where possible, and favors reconstruction for severely damaged structures that can't be saved through retrofitting.

Making the Right Choice: Retrofitting or Reconstruction?

Let’s return to the story of Maya Niwas. The Joshi family had to weigh several factors:

Structural Integrity: Engineers confirmed that the foundation was still solid, making retrofitting a feasible option.
Budget: Rebuilding would have been far too costly, so retrofitting was the more practical choice.
Emotional Value: Maya Niwas wasn’t just bricks and mortar; it was a treasure trove of memories. The family wanted to preserve its historical charm, so retrofitting was the clear choice.

Thus, the Joshi family decided to retrofit Maya Niwas, making it both safe and sustainable while preserving its rich heritage.

Conclusion: Finding the Balance Between Safety and Heritage

Nepal's architectural identity lies in its historical buildings, which are more than just structures—they are pieces of our culture. Retrofitting offers a way to preserve this legacy, while reconstruction may be necessary for buildings that are beyond repair. Every building must be carefully assessed based on its structural condition, cost, and cultural significance.

As we look to the future, we must strike a balance between modern safety standards and the need to protect our heritage. Whether it’s retrofitting or reconstruction, the key is ensuring that Nepal’s historic buildings continue to stand strong for generations to come.

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

What’s Better in Nepal – Loksewa or Private Job? A 360° Career Analysis

In Nepal, one of the most common questions that comes up among students, fresh graduates, or even parents is:

“Should I prepare for Loksewa or look for a job in the private sector?”
It’s a genuine question — and the answer isn’t the same for everyone. Some people want job security, others want faster growth. Some prefer stability, while others enjoy challenges.

So today, let me help you understand this deeply. Whether you're a diploma pass, bachelor’s graduate, or someone stuck in the middle of this confusion, let’s break it down together in simple, practical language — like we're just chatting in a classroom.

What Is Loksewa (Government Job) in Nepal?

Loksewa basically means government jobs — and these jobs are provided through competitive exams by the Public Service Commission (Lok Sewa Aayog). Every year, thousands of youth apply for positions like:

Kharidar
Naayab Subba
Section Officer (Sakha Adhikrit)
Engineers
Account Officers
Police Inspector
Teachers (TSC/PSC)
Health workers, and more

Getting selected in Loksewa is a big achievement in Nepal. It’s respected. You’ll hear relatives say things like:
“Tyo ta Loksewa paas gareko ho!”

Benefits of Loksewa Jobs

Let’s start with the positive side of government jobs:

1. 100% Job Security

This is the biggest reason many people choose Loksewa. Once you're selected, your job is secure until retirement — unless you commit a serious mistake. You don’t have to worry about layoffs like in private companies.

2. Pension After Retirement

Government jobs offer pension and gratuity, which means you will get a monthly income even after retirement. In private jobs, the income stops the day you stop working.

3. Social Respect

In our Nepali society, government employees are respected. Whether you're a Naayab Subba or even a junior Kharidar, people listen to you, especially in rural areas. For many, this social respect matters more than money.

4. Fixed Working Hours

Most government offices follow a 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM routine. You also get public holidays, Dashain-Tihar leave, casual leave, maternity leave, and even study leave in some cases.

5. Perks and Allowances

Along with the salary, you get housing allowance, medical allowance, festival bonus, insurance, and more — depending on the position.

Challenges of Loksewa

Now let’s be real — it’s not all perfect.

1. Very Competitive Exams

Seats are very limited. For example, there might be only 50 posts for Naayab Subba, but 60,000 people apply. So the preparation needs time, dedication, and a strong mindset. Many spend 2–3 years just preparing.

2. Slow Promotion

Promotions are usually based on years of service, or you need to give an internal exam (Bisesh Taalim). This process is slow and bureaucratic.

3. Less Salary at Start

Compared to some private sector jobs (like banking or INGOs), the starting salary in government can feel low. For example, a newly appointed Naayab Subba might earn around Rs. 35,000 – 40,000, while a private company may offer Rs. 50,000 to a graduate with good skills.

4. Limited Transfer Options

Once you're posted, changing the location or department is not that easy. It takes formal application, time, and often political or departmental support.

Real Story: Loksewa Journey

Let me tell you about Anil, one of my friends. After his BBS, he prepared for Naayab Subba for 2 years. He stayed in a rented room in Kathmandu, studying every day. He passed the exam in his third attempt. Now, he works in the District Administration Office.

He’s happy with the routine, gets free time for family and farming during holidays, and doesn’t worry about job loss. But when we talk, he sometimes says,
"If I were in the private sector, I’d probably earn more by now, but I’d never get this much peace of mind."

Private Sector Jobs in Nepal

Now, let’s look at the private sector side — this includes:

Commercial Banks & Microfinance
NGOs & INGOs
IT Companies
Engineering Consultancies
Construction Companies
Educational Institutions (Schools, Colleges)
Healthcare & Hospitality
Freelancing & Startups

Most private jobs are offered based on your CV, interview, and skills — not entrance exams.

Benefits of Private Jobs

Let’s talk about why people choose private jobs:

1. Better Starting Salary

Private companies often pay more at the beginning. For example, an IT graduate may start with Rs. 45,000 to Rs. 60,000, especially if they have coding or design skills.

2. Faster Career Growth

In the private sector, your growth is mostly based on performance, not just years of service. If you work well, you can become a manager within 3–5 years.

3. Skill Development

Private jobs allow you to learn soft skills, digital tools, management techniques, and more. You also get exposure to clients, international standards, and new technologies.

4. Flexibility to Switch

You can change jobs, industries, or even move abroad. Private jobs give you more freedom to choose your path.

5. Opportunity to Work Abroad

If you work in INGOs, software companies, or multinational firms, there’s a chance to travel abroad or get international projects.

Challenges of Private Jobs

Of course, the private sector also has its own set of issues:

1. Job Insecurity

Companies can remove staff during crises. For example, during COVID-19, many private employees lost their jobs — but government staff still got paid.

2. Long Working Hours

Many private companies don’t follow the strict 10–5 rule. You might have to stay till 7 or 8 PM, especially in banks or software firms.

3. Work Pressure

Deadlines, targets, and client expectations can create stress. Sales jobs or bank jobs often come with monthly targets.

4. No Pension

There’s no pension system in private jobs. Once you leave or retire, your income stops. You have to save on your own.

Real Story: Private Sector Growth

Take the example of Sujata, who started working in an INGO after completing her Master’s. She began with Rs. 40,000 salary, but within 5 years, her salary reached over Rs. 1 lakh. She has also traveled to Thailand and Bangladesh for training.

She once told me:
"Yes, the work is hectic, but I love the challenges and rewards. I’m building skills that I can use anywhere in the world."

Loksewa vs Private Sector

Feature	Loksewa (Govt Job)	Private Sector Job
Job Security	✅ Very High	❌ Medium to Low
Starting Salary	❌ Medium (~Rs. 30–40k)	✅ Often High (~Rs. 40–70k)
Career Growth	❌ Slow	✅ Fast (based on performance)
Work Pressure	✅ Low	❌ High (targets, deadlines)
Pension	✅ Yes	❌ No
Leave & Holidays	✅ Generous	❌ Depends on company
Skill Development	❌ Limited	✅ High
Entry Difficulty	❌ Very Tough Exams	✅ Easier if qualified/skilled
Respect in Society	✅ High	✅ Depends on position
Chance to Work Abroad	❌ Rare	✅ Possible

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Loksewa if:

You want security and stability in life
You’re okay with routine work and fewer changes
You have patience and can prepare seriously for exams
You want pension and long-term peace of mind
Your financial situation allows you to wait and prepare

Choose Private Job if:

You’re skill-driven and want faster income growth
You like challenges and learning new things
You’re open to job changes, travel, or freelancing
You want to earn well without waiting for exams
You’re good at communication, IT, or management

My Personal Suggestion to Students

If you are still confused, here's a smart path:

Start with a private job to gain experience and save some money. Meanwhile, prepare for Loksewa in the evenings or weekends.

This way, you're not wasting time and you’ll be in a better position whether you pass Loksewa or not.

Also, remember — every person is different. Just because someone else chose Loksewa or went abroad doesn't mean you should follow blindly. Understand your own strengths, interests, and goals first.

Conclusion

So, which is better – Loksewa or a private job in Nepal?
There is no single right answer. Both have their own beauty and their own struggles. The important thing is to choose what fits your lifestyle and future dream.

Whichever path you choose, work with honesty, keep learning, and never stop growing.

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

This One Mistake Can Cost Lakhs in Construction – Avoid It!

When it comes to house construction in Nepal, many people focus only on the design, materials, or finishing. But there is one mistake that can cost you lakhs of rupees if you're not careful. This mistake is: "Starting construction without proper soil testing and structural design."

Yes, it's that simple. But very few people actually follow this important step.

1. Why Soil Testing is So Important

Soil is the foundation of your building. Just like a tree cannot grow strong without healthy soil, your house cannot stand safely without strong soil beneath it. Different types of soil have different capacities to hold load.

According to the Nepal National Building Code (NBC), buildings must be designed based on the safe bearing capacity of the soil. In Kathmandu Valley, for example, the bearing capacity can vary from 75 kN/m² in clayey areas to over 250 kN/m² in sandy-gravel zones. Building without knowing this can result in under- or over-designed foundations.

Example:

Imagine you are building a two-storey house in Chitwan. You think the land is strong enough, so you skip the soil test. Later, you find that the soil has a high clay content and poor bearing capacity. Cracks start appearing on your walls just one year after construction. Now you have to spend lakhs on repair and retrofitting.

A basic soil test (like Standard Penetration Test or Plate Load Test) can easily tell the bearing capacity of the land. It costs between Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 20,000 depending on location and lab, but saves you from lakhs in future expenses.

2. Importance of Structural Design

Once you know the soil condition, your structural engineer can design the foundation, columns, beams, and slabs accordingly. But in Nepal, many houses are built by "guessing" column size or just copying from other buildings.

Real-Life Case:

In a small town in Rupandehi, a family built a three-storey house. They used 9" x 9" columns with 4 bars of 12 mm steel. No structural engineer was consulted. Within 5 years, visible tilting started, and during a minor earthquake, heavy cracks appeared. The house had to be demolished partially and rebuilt with proper design.

If they had spent just Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 40,000 on proper design, they could have avoided a loss of over Rs. 10 lakhs.

3. What Can Go Wrong Without Proper Design?

Uneven settlement of building
Cracks in beams, slabs, and walls
Column failure during earthquakes
Heavy repair cost
Unsafe structure for family

According to the Department of Urban Development and Building Construction (DUDBC), more than 60% of residential buildings in rural municipalities are constructed without consulting engineers, increasing the risk during earthquakes.

4. Why This Mistake is Common in Nepal

Lack of awareness
Trying to save money in the short term
Copy-paste culture in construction
No legal requirement for small buildings in rural areas

But with increasing earthquakes and heavy rains, it's time to change how we build.

5. How to Avoid This Costly Mistake

Step 1: Do a Soil Test

Contact a civil engineering consultancy or geotechnical lab. Get at least 1 test done if your building is under 3 storeys.

Step 2: Hire a Structural Engineer

Give them your architectural plan and soil report. Ask for a full structural design including:

Column layout
Beam details
Slab reinforcement
Foundation size

Step 3: Follow the Design on Site

Give the design to your site supervisor or contractor. Make sure the steel, concrete, and dimensions match the drawing.

What If You Can’t Hire a Structural Engineer?

If you're in a remote area or have budget limitations and cannot hire a structural engineer, you can still follow safe construction practices. The Government of Nepal has provided Ready to Use Building Guidelines based on the Nepal National Building Code (NBC). These guidelines give standard sizes for columns, beams, slabs, and foundations for typical residential houses up to three storeys.

You can download these guidelines online or consult with your local municipal office. This is a safer option than guessing or copying from neighbors.

6. Extra Tips for Homeowners

Keep Records: Always keep a copy of your soil report and structural design. It helps during insurance or renovation.
Don’t Cut Corners: Using smaller columns or less steel than designed will weaken the structure.
Hire Qualified People: Use registered engineers and trained masons. It’s an investment, not an expense.
Visit the Site Regularly: Keep an eye on what is being done. Ask questions if something doesn’t match the plan.

7. Final Thought

In Nepal, many people build a house once in their lifetime. Don’t let that dream become a nightmare due to one small but critical mistake. Soil testing and proper structural design might feel like extra cost in the beginning, but it is actually the strongest pillar of your future safety and financial security.

Avoid this one mistake, and you could save lakhs – and maybe even lives.

If you’re planning to build, take this first step seriously. Consult professionals. Build safe, build smart!

Smart Study vs Hard Study – Which Works Better for Loksewa?

"Yaar, I studied 10-12 hours every day but still failed. Aba k garne?"

Have you also said this line sometime during your Loksewa preparation?

If yes, then maybe you are doing hard study, but not smart study. In this article, we’ll talk about the difference between hard study and smart study — and which one actually helps you crack Loksewa exams. I’ll also share a fictional but very realistic story of a student named Suman, who finally succeeded after years of struggle — not because he studied harder, but because he studied smarter.

What is Hard Study?

Hard study means just giving more and more time. It means reading everything from A to Z, without thinking what’s important and what’s not. Most Loksewa aspirants start with this method.

Hard study ko common habits:

Reading 10–12 hours daily, even when you’re tired
Reading all books and guides available in the market
Making thick notes for every topic
Memorizing facts without understanding
No plan, just read what you feel like

Yes, this sounds very sincere. But question is — Does it work?

Hard study is like walking a long road without a map. You may reach somewhere, but not the destination you want.

What is Smart Study?

Smart study means focusing on what matters most, using your time and energy wisely, and always studying with a clear plan.

Smart study ko common habits:

Knowing the syllabus inside out
Focusing on most important topics (based on previous questions)
Giving mock tests regularly
Learning from mistakes
Doing revision multiple times
Using short notes and memory tricks

Smart study is not about being lazy — it’s about being clever.

Hard vs Smart Study – The Main Difference

Criteria	Hard Study	Smart Study
Time	Long hours (10+ hours/day)	Focused time (5–7 hours effective)
Planning	Random topics	Syllabus-based & strategic
Notes	Detailed, lengthy	Short and revision-friendly
Revision	Very little	Multiple revisions
Mock tests	Rarely done	Regularly done + analyzed
Result	Frustration, low confidence	Improvement and better performance

Story of Suman: From 3 Attempts to Success

Let me tell you about Suman, a 26-year-old boy from Jhapa. He completed his Bachelor’s in Education and wanted to become a Nayab Subba.

Attempt 1:

Suman studied like a warrior.
He read all GK books, First Paper Second Paper etc, Constitution line by line, and even tried to memorize full Muluki Ain.He studied 12 hours a day for 6 months. No social life.He gave the exam… and failed in pre-test.

Why?

Because he didn’t practice MCQs. He couldn’t manage time. He panicked.

Attempt 2:

Suman became more serious. He joined coaching classes. Bought more books. Made more notes. Again studied 10-12 hours. This time he passed pre-test but failed in main exam.

He was depressed. He said,

"Ma ta sabai padhe jasto lagcha, tara exam ma kei milcha jasto lagdaina."

Then, he met Anita, his childhood friend who had just passed Section Officer written exam. She told him one thing:

“Suman, tero mehnat ma kami chaina, tara tero method ramro chaina.”

She taught him the concept of smart study.

What Changes Suman Made (Smart Study Begins)

1. Syllabus Mapping:

Suman printed the official syllabus and started ticking topics. He realized 30% of what he studied was not even in syllabus.

2. Previous Questions Analysis:

He solved last 10 years’ papers. He saw that Constitution, GK, and Grammar are repeated with patterns. He made priority list.

3. Mock Tests:

He gave weekly mock tests. In beginning, he scored only 45/100. But he improved with each test. He focused more on solving questions than just reading theory.

4. One Page Notes:

Instead of big copies, he made small one-pagers. For example, one page for all national parks, one page for tenses rules, etc.

5. Healthy Routine:

He started exercising 30 minutes daily, sleeping 7 hours, and studying with breaks. No more 12-hour torture.

Result?

In his third attempt, he passed both Pre and Main exams — and now he’s waiting for his interview call letter.

He says:

"I studied less hours, but with full focus. Smart study changed my life."

How Mindset Matters: Smart Study Starts with Smart Thinking

Before even opening a book, ask yourself: Why am I studying this? How will it help me in Loksewa?

Most students jump into preparation with fear and pressure, not with clarity. Smart study is not only about techniques — it's about building the right mindset:

Study with purpose, not panic.

Stay consistent, not perfect.

Avoid comparing with others — focus on progress, not competition.

Celebrate small wins, like improving mock scores.

“Jaba samma timro dimaag ready hudaina, teti bela samma kitab ko kaagaj matrai badhcha.”

Tips to Do Smart Study for Loksewa

1. Study syllabus-wise, not chapter-wise.
Check what Loksewa wants, not what the book gives.

2. Set daily and weekly goals.
Without a goal, reading becomes random.

3. Don’t run after all books.
Stick to 1-2 good sources per subject. Quality over quantity.

4. Practice more than you read.
MCQs and answer writing make your brain exam-ready.

5. Revise again and again.
If you revise 5 times, your memory becomes permanent.

6. Don’t compare with others.
Everyone has their own pace. Just keep improving yourself.

Final Words: Which is Better — Smart or Hard?

Honestly, both are important. But in today’s competitive environment, smart study is the winning formula.

Hard work shows your dedication.
Smart work shows your direction.

Without smartness, your hard work becomes bhitte ghadi — it runs, but shows wrong time.

If you are preparing for Loksewa, don’t just study harder — study smarter.

Let me end with Suman’s favorite line:

"Maile kam padhna thale, tara thik kura padhna thale... ani tyahi le mero life badliyo."

Monday, May 12, 2025

How Tall Can You Build in Nepal? Rules, Limits & Famous Examples

When we walk around a city like Kathmandu, we see many types of buildings—small houses, big shopping malls, temples, and now even tall towers. But have you ever thought, “How tall can a building be?” Or, “Can I build this type of building on my land?”

Today, let’s talk about height of building in simple words, with real example like Kathmandu View Tower. This topic is important for homeowners, engineers, contractors, and even for students preparing Loksewa or engineering exams.

1. What is Building Height?

Building height means the vertical height from the ground level to the top of the building.

But it depends on the type of roof:

If building has flat roof, height is measured up to terrace.
If roof is sloped more than 30°, height is measured to the center of the slope.
If roof is sloped less than 30°, it is measured to the eaves level (where wall meets roof).

This helps in measuring buildings in a fair and same way.

2. Why Height is Controlled?

Maybe you think, "It's my land, I will build as high as I want." But this is not possible.

There are many reasons why building height is controlled by law:

Earthquake risk: Nepal is in high seismic zone. Tall buildings are more risky during earthquake.
Fire safety: Firefighting is difficult in tall buildings if there are no proper systems.
Sunlight and air: Very tall buildings block light and air for neighbors.
Beauty of city: In old places, big buildings look strange near temples.
Infrastructure: Roads, drainage, electricity can’t handle too much load in small area.

So, municipalities make rules called Building Byelaws to control height and design of buildings.

3. Rules in Kathmandu Metropolitan City

In Kathmandu, building height rules are clearly written. Some examples:

Residential buildings: Maximum height is 17 meters
Commercial buildings: Maximum height is 25 meters
Heritage area: Height should be less than 35 feet and not taller than nearby heritage building

These rules help to protect old structures, maintain peaceful environment, and keep buildings safe.

4. Real Example: Kathmandu View Tower

Let’s talk about a real case that everyone in Kathmandu knows — Kathmandu View Tower near Khula Manch (Old Bus Park).

It was planned to be Nepal’s tallest building, around 29 floors. It was supposed to have offices, shopping, parking, all modern facilities.

But even after many years, the tower is still incomplete. Why?

What Happened?

Byelaw problems: The design did not follow proper height and safety rules.
Authority confusion: Municipality and federal government had argument about permission.
Cultural issue: That area has temples and historical sites. A huge tower looked out of place.
Delay and poor work: No clear progress, budget problems, legal cases.

So this project became an example of how ignoring height rules and bad planning can cause big failure.

5. Who Sets the Rules?

In Nepal, Building Byelaws are prepared by municipalities, but some rules come from central government.

Important points:

Height is controlled by light plane, FAR (floor area ratio), and type of road.
For any building above 17 meters, Ministry of Urban Development must give special permission.
Basement is not counted in building height.
In heritage zones, height limit is 35 feet and should not cross temple height.
Local assembly can make more strict rules if needed.

6. Easy Example for House Owner

Imagine you have land in Kalanki area and want to build a house.

You ask engineer to design 3.5 storey house with flat roof. Total height comes around 16.8 meters. That’s okay, you will get building permit easily.

But what if you build one more floor and now height becomes 19 meters? Then municipality will say “no permission” because it's more than 17 meters. You have to get approval from Urban Development Ministry. If you don’t, you can get fine, legal problem, or even order to demolish extra floor.

So better to follow the rules from the start.

7. Why This is Important for Everyone

As Kathmandu and other cities are growing, buildings are getting taller. But we must balance modern needs and old culture.

If we build too tall without plan:

Old temples and buildings look small and ignored
Less sunlight and air for people
More traffic and drainage problem
More danger during disasters

But if we follow height rules:

Safe and beautiful cities
Respect to culture and heritage
Fairness for all landowners
Peaceful neighborhood

So, height rule is not a problem — it is for our safety and better future.

More Real-Life Case Studies from Nepal

Let’s look at real examples from different cities in Nepal. These stories will help us understand how height rules are applied in real life, not just on paper.

1. Kathmandu View Tower – (Kathmandu)

We already discussed this, but here’s a quick summary:

Plan: 29-storey tower at Khula Manch
Problem: Height and safety rules not followed properly
Result: Long delay, unfinished, legal disputes
Lesson: Even big projects can fail if rules are ignored

2. Dharan Clock Tower Area – (Dharan, Sunsari)

Situation: In Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City, the area near the Clock Tower is a tourist and public attraction.

Issue:

Some developers wanted to build tall hotels and commercial buildings near the Clock Tower.
Locals and heritage groups protested, saying view of the Clock Tower will be blocked.

Action:

Municipality introduced special height restriction around the tower.
Now, any new construction in the area must stay below 15 meters.

Lesson:

Local icons and landmarks need protection.
Height rules help protect city identity and tourism value.

3. Pokhara Lakeside Area – (Pokhara, Kaski)

Background: Pokhara is known for its natural beauty—Phewa Lake, mountains, and clean cityscape.

Challenge:

In recent years, many hotels started building 5-6 floors around Lakeside area.
These buildings started blocking mountain views, especially Machhapuchhre.

What Happened:

Pokhara Metropolitan Office issued a new byelaw limiting height in certain zones.
In Lakeside area, building height is restricted to 13 meters only.

Result:

Some hotel owners protested, saying it reduces room numbers.
But many locals supported the rule, to save mountain view and tourism beauty.

Lesson:

Tourism-based cities must balance profit and natural beauty.
Building height must support long-term tourism vision, not short-term money.

4. Lumbini Heritage Zone – (Lumbini, Rupandehi)

Background: Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Problem:

Nearby local areas started allowing buildings taller than temples and monasteries.
Foreign pilgrims and UNESCO teams raised concern.

Action Taken:

Government declared Lumbini area as Heritage Controlled Zone.
Strict height limit of 12 meters enforced near the main garden and monasteries.

Result:

Some hotels had to stop expansion plans.
But religious value and spiritual peace of the area was protected.

Lesson:

In religious zones, cultural respect is more important than height.
International image of the country depends on such planning.

5. Butwal-Tamghas Road Corridor – (Butwal, Rupandehi to Gulmi)

Context: Along the new road from Butwal to Tamghas, many small towns are growing fast.

Incident:

In one case, a private school constructed a 6-storey building in a semi-urban zone.
Locals complained about sunlight block, no parking, and no fire escape.

Response:

Municipality inspected and found building height was above local limit (should be max 14 meters).
Part of the top floor was ordered to be removed.

Lesson:

Even in rural and small towns, rules must be followed.
Safety and comfort of neighbors matter.

6. Bhaktapur Durbar Square – (Bhaktapur)

Situation: This area is full of traditional Newari architecture and UNESCO-listed heritage.

Case:

A builder tried to construct a 5-storey guesthouse just 50 meters from the main temple.
Local residents and culture experts protested.

What Happened:

The municipality said: “No building should be higher than traditional structure.”
Construction was stopped and forced to redesign.

Lesson:

In ancient towns, building height is linked to culture and respect.
Modern buildings must adjust, not dominate.

7. Dhangadhi Commercial Area – (Dhangadhi, Kailali)

Case:

In fast-growing market area of Dhangadhi, some developers tried to build 8-storey shopping complexes without proper plan.

Issue:

No fire lift, no drainage plan, and building height exceeded local rules (limit was 20 meters).

Action:

Municipality denied final approval.
Owners had to redesign the building to fit within height rule.

Lesson:

Business goals are good, but must be done with planning and permission.
Safety can't be compromised.

Conclusion: What These Case Studies Teach Us

From Kathmandu to Dhangadhi, Pokhara to Bhaktapur—one common message comes out:

" Building height is not just about size. It’s about safety, culture, planning, and respect"

If we follow the rules:

Cities stay safe and beautiful
Culture and tourism grow together
People live in peace and comfort

If we ignore the rules:

Projects get stopped or fail
Public anger and legal trouble
Harm to community and environment

Basic Drawings:

How to Pass Loksewa in First Attempt – Complete Guide for Beginners: Loksewa Sucess Blueprint

Introduction

In Nepal, Loksewa is one of the most popular and respected exams. Every year, thousands of people apply to get a government job. It is not easy, but it is not impossible also. If you study properly, have good planning, and don’t give up, then you can definitely pass Loksewa.

In this guide, you will find useful tips, real examples, and simple steps that can help you prepare better. It’s like your study friend giving you advice.

1. Know the Exam System: First Understand What You Are Facing

Loksewa is not just one exam. It happens in three steps:

Preliminary Exam: Objective type questions (MCQs).It checks your general knowledge,IQ, and basic subject knowledge.
Written Exam: Here you have to write answers properly. It is based on your subject.
Interview: They will ask you questions to check your confidence, personality, and thinking.

Real Example: Sunita Ghimire, who became Naayab Subba on her third try, said she failed first because she didn’t understand the exam system clearly. After she started studying with syllabus and old question papers, everything became easier.

Tip: Visit psc.gov.np Reinforce Nepal and download the syllabus and old questions. See which topics come again and again. Study smart, not only hard.

2. Make a Simple and Smart Study Plan

Without a good plan, it’s easy to get confused or waste time. So make a routine and follow it.

a. Set SMART Goals:

Make your goals simple and clear. For example: “I will finish Nepali Constitution part in 7 days.” Not “I will study something today.”

b. Use Time Table (Time Block):

Fix time for study every day. Give more time to weak subjects but revise strong ones too.

Example: Ram Prasad Bista, a school teacher, studied only 3 hours daily—before school, tiffin break, and at night. But he studied daily without break. That’s why he passed.

c. Weekly Mock Test:

Every Saturday or Sunday, give a test like real exam. Check your marks, find mistakes, and improve.

3. Use the Right Books and Materials

Don’t buy too many books. Choose few good ones and read them properly.

Recommended Books:

Books 📚 - Buy According to convience
For Current Affairs – Gorkhapatra, The Himalayan Times, Setopati, Online Khabar , Reinforce Nepal etc.

Pro Tip: Sita Rai, who passed Kharidar, only used 2 books per subject but read them 3 times. Revision is more important than buying more books.

4. Practice Every Day – Like a Real Exam

Only reading is not enough. You must practice questions, writing, and time management.

For Preliminary exam, solve at least 50 MCQs daily. Use old questions and website like Reinforce Nepal .
For Written exam, practice old questions ( for old questions visit Reinforce Nepal , answer writing, and summary writing.

Tip: Write one essay per week. Check grammar, structure, and clarity. Ask friends or teachers to check your writing.

Example: Suman from Pokhara wrote essays every Saturday. Slowly, his writing became clear and confident. He got good marks in the written exam.

5. Stay Updated with Current Affairs

20–25% questions come from current topics. So stay updated with daily news.

Make one small diary or notebook for Current Affairs. Write important things daily like:

New government plans and budgets
International relations (visits, agreements)
Economy (GDP, inflation, remittance)
Awards and national honors

Sources: Gorkhapatra, The Himalayan Times, Setopati, Online Khabar, Kantipur, Reinforce Nepal etc.

6. Learn Time Management for Exam Hall

In exam, time goes very fast. You must plan how much time to give for each question.

Preliminary Exam: according to loksewa
Written Exam: 3 hours

7. Take Care of Health – Body and Mind Both

Many people study too much and get sick or tired. That’s not good. You need strong body and peaceful mind.

Walk or do light exercise daily – 30 minutes
Sleep properly – at least 6–7 hours
Eat healthy food – less junk, more fruits, nuts, and greens
Do meditation or deep breathing – 10 minutes per day

Example: Nabin Adhikari failed two times due to anxiety. Then he started yoga and daily walk. On 3rd attempt, he felt relaxed and passed easily.

8. Don’t Be Afraid of Failure – Learn and Try Again

Many successful Loksewa candidates failed 1–2 times before passing. Failure means feedback.

After each mock test or exam:

Check what went wrong
Improve weak areas
Talk to mentors or friends
Don’t give up

Real Example: Rina Thapa failed written exam first time. She joined one online group and got advice. On next try, she passed and now works in District Office.

9. Prepare Well for Interview – Show Your Best Side

Interview is not only about knowledge. It’s about personality.

Speak with confidence
Give honest and logical answers
Dress properly and stay calm
Practice mock interviews with friends

Possible Questions:

Why you want government job?
What would you do in difficult situation?
What are duties of public servant?

10. Study Group or Coaching – If You Need Support

If you feel lonely or stuck in study, join a group or coaching center.

Discuss with friends, share notes
Motivate each other
Solve problems together

Good Institutes in Nepal: Choose According to You

Note: Coaching is not compulsory. Many students pass with self-study. But group study helps with discipline and sharing ideas.

Final Word: Loksewa is a Long Journey – Walk with Patience

This exam is like a marathon, not a short race. So don’t rush. Study daily, revise regularly, and believe in yourself.

Celebrate small success, like finishing one subject or improving mock test score. Slowly, you will reach your goal.

“The secret to success: Start early, stay regular, and never stop believing in yourself.”

FAQs ( Most Asked Questions )

Q: How many months to prepare for Loksewa?

A: Around 6 to 12 months, depending on your level.

Q: Is coaching necessary?

A: Not compulsory. If you can study yourself with good planning, you can pass.

Q: Which Paper is most important?

A: Both or All Paper are most important .

Best wishes for your Loksewa journey!

You can do it—just start today, and don’t stop.