Kathmandu is facing a growing water crisis that threatens the city’s future. As the population increases, water demand is rising faster than supply, turning water scarcity into a long-term urban risk.
Projects like Melamchi have improved supply, but many areas still depend on water tankers, borewells, wells, and bottled water. Access to clean water is becoming unequal, with poorer communities suffering the most.
Climate change is making the situation worse. Irregular rainfall, falling groundwater levels, and drying natural sources are reducing available water, while daily demand keeps increasing.
Unplanned urban growth has also damaged natural water systems. Concrete expansion has reduced rainwater absorption, and traditional water sources are disappearing.
This crisis is more than an infrastructure issue — it is a health, economic, and social challenge.
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What Kathmandu Needs
- Rainwater harvesting
- Protection of groundwater recharge areas
- Revival of traditional water systems
- Better urban planning
- Public awareness on water conservation
Kathmandu’s future depends on water security.
Without urgent action, today’s shortage could become tomorrow’s emergency.
Water is not just a resource — it is the city’s lifeline.
