Chitwan Irrigation Project Provides 24-Hour Water Supply, Incurs High Electricity Costs
Summary
The Narayani Lift-Khageri Irrigation Project in Chitwan is supplying round-the-clock water to farmers in western Chitwan during the monsoon, but the nonstop pumping is driving electricity bills up to Rs 4.2 million a month. The project serves 4,700 hectares through the Narayani Lift system and 3,900 hectares through the Khageri system.
Key Points
- The Narayani Lift-Khageri Irrigation Project is providing 24-hour irrigation in western Chitwan during the monsoon from the Narayani River.
- Continuous operation of the pumps is costing the project up to Rs 4.2 million per month in electricity, with annual bills estimated at around Rs 20 million.
- The project supplies water to 4,700 hectares through the Narayani Lift system and 3,900 hectares through the Khageri Irrigation System.
- Officials say encroachment and urbanization in Bharatpur Metropolitan City are reducing canal areas and affecting irrigated land.
