Research/ Capacity Development

Nepal is home to plenty of rivers fed by glacial melt from Himalayan water-induced disasters. This challenge is particularly acute in the Karnali province, the largest province of Nepal, where despite having adequate freshwater resources, only yet the region faces huge water stress with only 35.64% of residents having reliable access to drinking water sources. (National Census, 2021).

The project addresses the pressing water scarcity issues by implementing nature-based solutions (NbS) to protect and revitalize natural water sources. By educating and empowering the local community, and executing NbS, the project aims to increase the water discharge from springs through strategic interventions, such as training the local population in constructing recharge ponds and pits, which capture monsoon precipitation and replenish water sources during dry seasons. The project also plans to increase vegetation coverage and stabilize landslide-prone areas using vetiver grass, thereby promoting sustainable water management and enhancing the adaptive capacity of the community.

The project’s approach involves community participation at every stage, beginning with a participatory mapping exercise to identify and prioritize the spring sources that need intervention. Training will be provided to community members on climate-resilient watershed management practices, climate-smart agriculture, and NbS practices.