World Water Day is being observed today with the theme, ‘Water Scarcity’ by organising various programmes.

The day is observed worldwide ever since the United Nations General Assembly declared 22 March as the World Water Day in December 1992.

According to statistics, an estimated 425 million children under the age of 18 continue to face water shortages. Women and girls are often tasked with fetching water, putting extra pressure on their well being and leaving many girls out of school.

A view of the Bhote Koshi river (File Photo)

A view of the Bhote Koshi river (File Photo)
“An estimated 1.2 billion people have gained access to safe water since 1990. Yet, every year, unsafe water and lack of basic sanitation contribute to the deaths of an estimated 1.5 million children under the age of five as a result of diarrhea,” said a statement issued by UNICEF.

According to senior Divisional Engineer of Water and Energy Commission, Sanjaya Dhungel, rapid development of industries, population growth and mismanagement were some causes of the scarcity of water.

According to the data of the National Planning Commission, only 71 percent Nepali have access of water.

According to Dhungel, the National Water Plan of 2005 targets to provide potable water to 85 percent people by 2007, 90 percent by 2012 and 100 percent by 2017.

Similarly, in irrigation, the plan aims to have irrigation facility to 49 percent arable land by 2007 and to 67 percent by 2027. In 2005, only 30 percent arable land was under irrigation.

In hydropower, the aim is to produce 700 MW by 2007, 2100 MW by 2017 and 4000 MW by 2027 for internal consumption. The government has plans to provide electricity to all people by 2027.