Wednesday, April 15, 2026 09:31 AM

World Water Day: President urges equal access to water

Kathmandu, March 22: President Ram Chandra Paudel has called on government agencies, development partners, organizations, and the public to work together to conserve water, use it wisely, and ensure fair access for all.

In his message marking World Water Day 2026, the President highlighted the need for gender equality, inclusive participation, and equitable distribution in drinking water management at every level.

He described water as the basis of life, health, prosperity, and social justice, noting that human civilizations have always depended on it. At the same time, he warned that protecting water resources has become more difficult due to growing environmental pressures.

Paudel pointed out that groundwater plays a key role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting river systems, easing the impact of climate change, and supplying safe drinking water. He cautioned that rapid urban growth, infrastructure expansion, pollution, and environmental damage are leading to the depletion of water sources.

The message also noted that overuse of groundwater and the spread of concrete structures in cities have blocked natural recharge systems, causing water tables to fall. Unplanned settlements and rising industrial activity have further worsened groundwater pollution.

Looking ahead, the President stressed the need to protect watershed areas and promote traditional water conservation methods, such as ponds and small reservoirs, especially in rural areas.

Observed annually since 1993 at the call of the United Nations, World Water Day raises awareness about water conservation. This year in Nepal, it is being marked with programs focused on the role of water in gender equality.

People’s News Monitoring Service

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