Nepal’s historic homes at risk as post-quake demolition begins

Thousands of centuries-old homes could be demolished in Nepal`s historic cities as the government begins the long process of tearing down buildings rendered unsafe by last month`s 7.8 earthquake.
More than 600 temples, statues and museums across the country were damaged in Nepal`s deadliest earthquake on record, including Kathmandu`s 200-foot Dharahara Tower, built in 1832, which collapsed.
The government has pledged to restore the damaged monuments, a magnet for foreign tourists.
But hundreds of private houses that authorities deem a risk to passers-by in Bhaktapur, one of several quake-hit mediaeval cities, may face the wrecking ball, raising fears among conservationists that Nepal`s heritage will be lost in the rush to rebuild.
Founded in the 12th century, UNESCO World Heritage site Bhaktapur is now littered with ruined monuments.
Metres from the 15th century Dattatreya temple, one of the oldest in Bhaktapur, the army has already started demolition work in the narrow lanes that wind through the city.