The expert committee formed to study the reconstruction of Rani Pokhari has requested the Department of Archaeology (DOA) to conduct the archaeological excavation in the pond.

The inaugural meeting of the 11-member committee, led by former DoA director general Bishnu Raj Karki, on Monday decided to put forth the request, citing that the historic pond which is dry now may have valuable materials in it.

Following widespread criticism for using modern construction materials to rebuild the earthquake-damaged pond, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City had last week decided to halt the ongoing construction works while announcing that the Malla-era monument would be restored to its original form.

 Dhani Ram Sharma, member secretary of the committee, and Executive Officer at the KMC Dhani Ram Sharma said the reconstruction works on the pond would begin after the excavation. The excavation works might lead to more discoveries in the historic pond, Sharma said.

The expert team has also decided to solicit public comments regarding the reconstruction of Rani Pokhari. It is scheduled to published a public notice on Tuesday.