Nepal's Burned Parliament Building to Transform into 'Gen Z Museum'

Nepal's government has announced plans to convert the extensively damaged International Convention Center (ICC) in Naya Baneshwor, which served as the Parliament House, into a 'Gen Z Museum.' The decision comes after a detailed study concluded that the building, ravaged by fire during last year's Gen Z rebellion, is beyond repair and cannot be restored to its operational capacity. This move marks a significant shift from potential reconstruction to historical preservation, reflecting both pragmatic financial considerations and a desire to commemorate a pivotal moment in Nepal's recent history.

The International Convention Center holds immense historical significance for Nepal. Constructed in 1993 (2050 BS) with substantial assistance from China, it was initially christened the Birendra International Convention Center. For years, it served as a premier venue for national and international gatherings. Its prominence escalated dramatically in 2008 (2065 BS) when the Constituent Assembly, meeting within its main hall, formally declared Nepal a republic, abolishing the centuries-old monarchy. Following this historic declaration, the name 'Birendra' was removed, and the complex was repurposed to house the nation's Parliament, becoming the epicenter of Nepali democracy.

Spanning an expansive 153 ropani (approximately 7.7 hectares), the complex was more than just the Parliament House. It also accommodated crucial government and financial institutions, including the Parliament Secretariat, the Investment Board, the Law Commission, and a branch of Rastriya Banijya Bank. The facility boasted eight halls, with the main auditorium capable of seating up to 2,000 individuals, while the smaller halls could host up to 200 each. Prior to its destruction, the convention center generated a substantial annual income of NPR 180 million through rent from these various offices, highlighting its economic value as a functional asset.

The tragic events leading to the building's destruction unfolded on Bhadra 23 (September 8) last year. Following a violent confrontation where youth protestors were reportedly killed by gunfire originating from the Parliament premises, enraged demonstrators retaliated the very next day by setting the building ablaze. The fire caused catastrophic damage, not only to the physical structure but also to invaluable historical records and critical documents, including architectural blueprints, which were completely incinerated.

Officials from the Department of Building recently conducted a comprehensive assessment, which definitively concluded that the building's structural integrity is compromised to such an extent that repair and restoration for operational use are unfeasible. The study indicated that the only viable option for its continued use as a functional building would be complete demolition and reconstruction. However, government officials and a panel of experts have collectively determined that undertaking such a massive reconstruction project is not currently viable. Key factors influencing this decision include the substantial financial outlay required, which has not been allocated in the current fiscal year's budget, and the immediate practical challenges of embarking on a grand new construction.

Consequently, a consensus has emerged to transform the existing damaged structure into a museum. "We have concluded that a museum can be established by preserving the current structure as it is, which would not entail a significant expenditure," an official from the relevant ministry informed Merolagani, though a final formal decision is still pending. Crucially, there is a strong inclination and near-agreement among stakeholders to name this new institution the 'Gen Z Museum,' recognizing its central role in the youth-led rebellion that marked a significant socio-political turning point. This museum would serve as a poignant reminder of the power of youth activism and the events that shaped a critical juncture in Nepal's democratic journey, offering future generations a tangible link to this historical moment. The decision to convert it into a museum rather than rebuild reflects a pragmatic approach to resource management while simultaneously creating a powerful symbol of remembrance and reflection.