But after the construction of cemented rainwater reservoirs at every house of the VDC, the problem is a thing of the past. The water collected through rainwater harvesting now quences the thirst of every local family. [break]
Thanks to the novel system implemented under initiatives led by Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS), Pyuthan division, we have piped water whenever we want, said a local, Dewa Gharti. “We don´t have to cover long distances for our water and the water is cleaner than before. It´s not just us but even domestic animals have been benefitted,” said Gharti.
According to NRCS chief Damodar Sharma, the expenses, which totalled around Rs 10 million, were covered by Nepal Red Cross Society Community Eye and Health Treatment Program under implementation in Nepalgunj and at Pyuthan and Chugja VDCs.
“All the 108 households at Chunja along with two schools have been supplied water from a rainwater reservoir. Today, 15,000 locals have piped water at their homes,” said Sharma.
Coordinator of NRSC Dharma Raj Sahi said that around Rs 65,600 was spent on the construction of each reservoir. “The expenses included wages for the workers along with technical and material inputs,” said Sahi. “Each reservoir holds enough water to last around 6 months in total if it is used at the rate of 10 liters per day,” added Sahi.
Recalling past water scarcity, another local, Sita Khanal, said, “The whole day used to be spent fetching water and it was worse when we had visitors at home”.
“We started from scratch and after four years of continuous hard work we have finally realised our dream,” said Sharma.
Related story
‘Myth Buster’: Rainwater harvesting is not just for monsoon (wi...
