MAHOTTARI, Sept 20: Experts have stressed the need for mutual cooperation for the management of rivers flowing through the Chure range. 

Speaking at a discussion on 'Challenges and journey in the protection of the river system of the Chure range' held in Bardibas on Wednesday, experts said no single effort in river management would be fruitful. 

"The government at all three levels should coordinate with each other and show common interest to manage the rivers flowing through the Chure range," said Chure expert Ajaya Dixit, adding, "The management of rivers flowing through the Chure range is not only related to Madhes, but also to the lives of inner Madhes. So, the federal government should coordinate with the province and the respective local-level governments." Dixit also presented a paper during the discussion program. 

Experts said that the main reasons for the increase in water crisis in many districts of Madhesh this year were the destruction of rivers and forests, indifference in the river management and the uncontrolled excavation. 

"The water sources (wells, tube wells and boring) in the southern part of various districts in Madhes have dried up this year. Forget farming, there is a shortage of drinking water. The main reason for this problem is the uncontrolled exploitation of forests and rivers," said Chure expert Banikraj Kafle of Bardibas-5, adding, "If we do not take measures immediately, farming in Madhesh will be destroyed within a few years." 

Kafle, who is also an agricultural expert, said if we look at the situation in the last decade, the availability of underground water is decreasing. 

To deal with the problem, Dixit suggested that excavation in the Chure hills should be stopped immediately and forest areas be protected. Similarly, the experts suggested that rampant extraction of river materials should be regulated and water recharge ponds be built in the Chure area. 

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