Students from the Post Graduate Department of Urban Design and Conservation embarked on a transformative journey into Vyas Municipality, Tanahun District, from 30th Falgun 2080 to 1st Chaitra 2080. This expedition aimed to uncover the municipality's rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and developmental strides along the scenic banks of the Madi and Seti rivers.
Vyas Municipality, named in honor of Maharshi Vedvyas, offers a harmonious blend of cultural diversity and natural beauty, providing ample opportunities for the development of tourism. Strategically located approximately 150 km west of Kathmandu and 50 km east of Pokhara along the Prithvi Highway, Vyas Municipality serves as a vital hub in the Gandaki Province, fostering strong trade relations with major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bharatpur.
Covering 248.00 square km and divided into 14 wards, each with its unique characteristics ranging from urban to rural, the municipality boasts robust developmental infrastructure. Notable features include a road network comprising 93.37 km of black-topped, 166.60 km of gravel, and 473.33 km of other roads, enhancing connectivity and accessibility.
During the field visit, students engaged in original surveys and research to grasp urban design and conservation issues. They honed their analytical skills by analyzing quantitative and qualitative data, gaining insights into contemporary and historical urban development challenges.
Furthermore, the expedition provided a platform for students to identify field study problems, discuss methodologies, and outline survey questions. Through hands-on experience in data collection, survey work, and analysis, students gained invaluable insights into urban planning and conservation complexities.