National Assembly Committee Recommends Long-Term Plan for Madhesh Water Crisis
Summary
The National Assembly committee has called for a long-term, sustainable plan to address drinking water scarcity and groundwater depletion in Madhesh Province. The report warns that drought, climate change, and damage to the Chure-Bhawar region have severely reduced water supplies across all eight districts.
Key Points
- The Development, Economic Affairs and Good Governance Committee presented a study report on drinking water, sanitation and water resource management in Madhesh Province.
- The report says groundwater levels have fallen by 2 to 3 meters on average, leaving more than 60 percent of hand pumps, wells and tube wells dry in many areas.
- Committee Chairman Krishna Prasad Paudel said the crisis has harmed health institutions, schools and local livelihoods.
- The committee urged the government to adopt a clear water-security policy with immediate, medium-term and long-term actions, rather than relying only on emergency relief.
