In an effort to raise funds for conservation and renovation of the Patan Durbar Square, Nepal Investment Bank Limited (NIBL) is to organise an annual marathon on March 17.

The bank aims at raising over Rs 2.5 million, which would be matched by the same amount by the World Monuments Fund (USA), from the four-category sports event. Nine events of marathon will be held in four categories – 21 km, 10 km, 5 km and 1 km run. A total of Rs 500,000 cash award will be given to the winners of the nine events.

Addressing a press conference in the capital Tuesday, chairman and executive director of the bank, Prithvi Bahadur Pande said, “We are committed to continue our support to various social and sporting activities at the bank grows.”

He said the event will be held every year to build awareness in people about monumental conservation and encourage them to contribute for it. He said persons willing to contribute for monumental conservation should contribute at least Rs 500 or above.

Speaking on the occasion, runner Baikuntha Manandhar stressed the need for investment in sports activities by the private sector as part of their corporate social responsibility.