In Pulchowk of Lalitpur, there stands the historic Rana-era palace built by Prime Minister Bir Shumsher for Anand Shumsher. In this historic palace, there is the Institute of Engineering under Tribhuvan University and the administrative office of Pulchowk Campus.
Anand Niketan, constructed in the architectural style of Vastukala and European design, was the headquarters of the Nepal Engineering Institute since 2023 B.S. The first memorial statue of Dean Kularatna Tuladhar, under the Institute of Engineering, was also built in the palace premises.
Despite facing general damages in the earthquake of 1990 and administrative damage in the earthquake of 2072, Anand Niketan Darbar has been restored by the administration of the Institute of Engineering and Pulchowk Engineering Campus. The historic Rana-era palaces in Lalitpur, such as Harihar Bhavan and Narayan Bhavan, are neglected due to a lack of conservation efforts. However, after restoration, the Anand Bhavan in Pulchowk has come into use. The campus chief, Indra Prasad Acharya, ensured that the historic palace, which was in a dilapidated state after the earthquake, was repaired to prevent water leakage.
In 2072, the Indian government signed an agreement to provide Rs 2.19 billion for the reconstruction of the Institute of Engineering buildings. However, as of now, the Pulchowk Campus Chief Acharya has informed that the promised support has not been received.
Out of the Rs 2.19 billion promised by the Indian government, Rs 35 crore was allocated for the reconstruction of Anand Niketan Bhavan. While the detailed project proposal has been prepared, work has not yet started as per the agreement. The historic palace has endured various difficulties since the earthquake of 2072, with some windows broken. Despite being in a deteriorating condition, the office will be kept as it is until further notice, according to the advice of experts.
Currently, there are numerous students studying engineering at the Pulchowk Engineering Campus. Many students have graduated as engineers from this campus. Despite the historic Anand Niketan Darbar being reconstructed, no authority has shown interest in restoring it for construction purposes after the earthquake.
