Nepal is joining the global community today, March 22, 2026, to observe World Water Day under the theme “Water and Gender” and the slogan “Where water flows, equality grows.”
In a special message issued from Shital Niwas, President Ramchandra Paudel highlighted the indispensable link between water security and social justice. He emphasized that achieving gender equality in Nepal is inextricably tied to how the nation manages its water resources, particularly in rural and mountainous regions where women and girls bear the disproportionate burden of water collection.
President’s Key Highlights:
-
A Foundation for Justice: The President noted that water is the basis of life, health, and prosperity. He called for “proportional participation” and “just access” for women at every tier of drinking water management.
-
Groundwater Crisis: Expressing concern over the rapid depletion of groundwater—especially in the Terai-Madhes and urban centers—he pointed to over-extraction and the rise of concrete structures as primary culprits preventing natural recharge.
-
Call for Traditional Solutions: President Paudel urged the adoption of traditional conservation methods, such as the construction of ponds and lakes and the protection of watershed areas, to ensure long-term water sustainability.
-
Climate Resilience: He warned that drying springs in hilly areas are a direct threat to the existence of life and urged coordinated action between government bodies and citizens to mitigate climate-induced water scarcity.
The Gender Perspective in Nepal
While urban centers hold seminars, the ground reality for millions in Nepal remains a daily struggle. Reports released today indicate that women in the hilly districts still walk an average of 3–4 hours daily to fetch water during the dry season. This “water poverty” directly impacts girls’ education and limits economic opportunities for women.
The government’s “One House, One Tap” policy remains a central goal to alleviate this burden, with new solar-powered water-lifting projects being highlighted today in districts like Sindhupalchok as a model for gender-transformative infrastructure.