Kathmandu: The Development, Economic Affairs and Good Governance Committee under the National Assembly has directed the government to immediately allocate an additional budget to tackle the severe drought affecting Madhes Province. The committee’s decision comes in response to escalating concerns about the region’s critical water shortage.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Committee Chairperson Kamala Panta urged officials from relevant ministries to prioritize the issues of drinking water and irrigation, particularly in the drought-stricken areas of Madhes Province. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach, including immediate, midterm, and long-term plans, to effectively manage the drought crisis.
Lawmakers have pointed out that the ongoing drought in Madhes has been exacerbated by the overexploitation of the Chure region. They warned that if this human-induced problem is not promptly addressed, it could escalate into a more severe crisis. Narayan Kaji Shrestha highlighted the necessity for the state to prioritize access to drinking water.
During the committee meeting, Kamal Raj Shrestha, the Officiating Secretary at the Ministry of Drinking Water, informed lawmakers that water is currently being distributed via tankers as a temporary measure. He added that discussions with stakeholders are ongoing to find a permanent solution to the water crisis.