WWF Nepal holds Sakhi Fish Sanctuary Run to mark Earth Hour in Bardiya
RAJAPUR, BARDIYA: WWF Nepal organised a competitive running event titled 'Sakhi Fish Sanctuary Run – 11.2 km' in Rajapur Municipality-3, Bardiya district, on Saturday to mark Earth Hour and raise public awareness of river conservation and aquatic biodiversity.
The run, held under the motto 'Run for Healthier Planet', began with an inauguration ceremony at 6:00 am and started from Rajapur Stadium at 6:30 am. The 11.2 km distance corresponded to the perimeter of the Sakhi Fish Sanctuary, Nepal’s first designated fish sanctuary, and was chosen to emphasise the importance of protecting aquatic habitats and conserving fish biodiversity.
The competition featured Open Men and Open Women categories and attracted runners from across different regions. In the men’s category, Durga Bahadur Thapa finished first in 36 minutes 39 seconds, Narendra Dani was second in 36 minutes 40 seconds, and Tek Bahadur Chand was third in 37 minutes 07 seconds. Bikash BK placed fourth in 36 minutes 39 seconds. In the women’s category, Kalpana Pant won in 44 minutes 24 seconds, Debaki Kumari Bam was second in 44 minutes 42 seconds, Apsara Bam Thakuri was third in 49 minutes 02 seconds, and Tara Singh finished fourth in 50 minutes 45 seconds.
Organisers said the event promoted environmental conservation alongside a healthy lifestyle and aimed to enhance community engagement in river protection and the preservation of clean, sustainable river ecosystems.
The programme adhered to eco-friendly practices with a strict no-plastic policy, and emergency medical services were available throughout the event to ensure participant safety.
The run was organised in collaboration with Sonaha Bikas Samaj, Dolphin Conservation Centre and WWF Nepal under the 'Strengthening Communities’ Livelihood and Stewardship to conserve otters in Karnali' project, funded by the UK government through the Darwin Initiative.
Organisers said the successful completion of the Sanctuary Run marked a significant step towards fostering environmental responsibility and community participation in biodiversity conservation.
