Kathmandu: UN-HABITAT Water for Asian Cities programme and Bottlers Nepal Limited are set to install rainwater harvesting system in historical ponds located in Kathmandu and Lalitpur districts. The bid is believed to recharge sinking water aquifer caused by over-extraction of groundwater and climate change.

The two parties signed an agreement on June 5 to work together on rainwater harvesting at a number of places in collaboration with the communities. The partnership plans to employ indigenous ways of harvesting rain for groundwater recharge in select communities in Lalitpur Sub-Metropolitan City (LSMC). According to the pact, LSMC and Kathmandu Valley Water Supply Management Board would be working together, technically aided by Centre for Integrated Urban Development (CIUD). This initiative is claimed to be an example of public private partnership. The project is said to be crucial in generating the source of traditional stone spouts in the work areas.
Dr. Roshan Raj Shrestha, chief technical advisor, UN-HABITAT Water for Asian Cities Programme, South Asia said, “Global warming has posed a challenge to humanity by causing unpredictable change in ecology.” He said the initiative would conserve 40,000 kiloliters of rain water, besides encouraging communities to conserve water and protect its traditional sources.
Saumendra Bhattacharya, country manager, Bottlers Nepal Limited, said, “Water is fundamental to all communities. Climate change, lack of proper management of water sources and over-extraction of groundwater are the major causes of water crisis in Kathmandu.” Piped water supply in the valley is a chunk of the demand. Alternatively, stone spouts, well and pools have served a large number of people.

Source: The Himalayan Times, June 7, 2009