Adarsh Kumar/ East Champaran: The historical horse racing pond, which was excavated in 1415 AD in Padumker village located in Patahi block of East Champaran district, is today becoming a victim of neglect. This ancient pond, which holds historical and cultural heritage, is now in the grip of water hyacinth and disrepair. If conserved and revived, this area can not only become a center of tourism but also a source of employment for local villagers, especially fisherman families.
Historical importance of horse racing pond
Krishna Kumar Singh, a local historian, says that Raja Shiv Singh got this pond excavated in the 15th century. The king, who belonged to the Simargarh region of Nepal, was seriously ill. On the advice of a physician, he passed through this area in search of herbs and it was here that he found the herb which cured him.
After this miraculous healing, the king organized a yagya in gratitude and decided that a horse would be whipped and released. The puddle will be dug up to the distance where the horse stops after running. The horse ran for about 2 kilometers and the construction of the pond was completed in two years (1413 to 1415). It was named ‘Ghoddaur Pokhar’.
Demand and prospects of revival
Krishna Kumar Singh says, the renovation of this pond will benefit five panchayats in agricultural irrigation. Besides, it can also be developed as a tourist destination. Local resident Sanjeev Kumar Singh said that the pond is occupied by water hyacinth and it is neither useful for irrigation nor for fish farming. About 200 fishermen families live in the area, who depend on this pond.
Local journalist Raja Kumar Sah said, if the government pays attention to this pond, not only can this heritage be saved but it can also provide employment to the local people.
The issue has been raised in the assembly
The issue of this historical pond was also raised in the Assembly earlier. Former MLA Avnish Kumar Singh had demanded the revival of this pond, but till now no concrete steps have been taken in this direction.
The fight continues for a long time
The people of Padumker village have been demanding the conservation and revival of this pond for the last several years. Local residents believe that if this heritage is revived, it will not only restore its historical importance but will also become a medium for the development of the village and surrounding areas.
A heritage waiting to be neglected
Ghoddaur Pokhar, which is a symbol of history and cultural heritage, is today a victim of disorganization and government neglect. Local residents hope that necessary steps will be taken soon to return this ancient pond to its original form.
Tags: Bihar News, East Champaran, Local18
FIRST PUBLISHED: November 20, 2024, 19:09 IST
