Learning from the Challenges of the Melamchi Water Supply in Kathmandu

Abstract

Water security is a prerequisite for the development of a nation. A sustainable and safe water source is essential for human well-being, economic development, ecosystem preservation, and the prevention of water-related hazards. However, about half of the world’s population now experiences water scarcity for at least 1 month per year, and the number of affected people is expected to increase to about 4.8 billion–5.7 billion by 2050 (Burek et al. 2016). At present, 41% of the world’s population lives in river basins that are under water stress. Rapid population growth, climate change, water pollution, overexploitation of water reserves, industrialization, economic development, and mismanagement of water sources have depleted water sources and changed water ecosystems, causing floras and faunas to become extinct sooner. About 73% of the world’s population who now face water scarcity lives in Asia. Despite the development initiatives in the region to tackle the water problem, the rate of scarcity is expected to reduce to only 69% by 2050 (Burek et al. 2016). The water security problem is increasing the number of people below the poverty line—when freshwater sources are lacking, people are forced to opt for alternative sources that are likely to be more expensive because of privatization. Furthermore, polluted water resources and inadequate sanitation facilities can lead to the spread of various waterborne diseases and expose marginalized groups of people to health risks.