Water is a global issue. Around the world, one person dies every 15 seconds from diseases related to poor water supply, sanitation and hygiene. Most of the problems are caused by lack of access to improved drinking water sources and sanitation systems. A person can survive for longer without food than can without water. One of the major challenges facing many villages of Nepal is access to safe and adequate drinking water and failure to do that, results in water borne diseases, safety and health hazards and loss of opportunities to socio-economic activities. The need of easier access to water was more critical after the earthquake.
Keraghari, a beautiful hilly village, just 6 KMs northern from the district headquarter Dhulikhel, had been struggling with basic water facilities. People had no access to safe drinking water and very limited access to water. Due to lack of water, many villagers was migrate from the place and many villagers were gone another place to work in bricks factory. “We were regularly deal with a lot of cases of water-related problems. To get water to the village, a 1 km path through the ups and down was needed to walk. Many times, our kids got sick but we had no choice. I used to have to spend a lot of time bringing water from the nearby village.” said Indra Humagai, a member of user group. There was set up a deep boring and a 45,000 liters water tank with local contribution and parliament fund to store water but was not functioning because not have pipeline system and other accessories due to lack of money.
Now villagers are working for the water pipeline. They are happily participating in pipeline installation knowing that one month later they will have enough water at their own house. One of the development organizations brings back the smile in their face by providing water pipeline system. Compassionate Hands For Nepal provided financial support for the pipeline system for more than 190 households in Keraghari village. The Users Groups are actively involving in pipeline installation work now. They are doing this because they will have sufficient drinking water in their house soon. They will not have to wait for long hours for the water and will not have to fight with neighbor for it again.
The pipe installation works are currently taking place in the village. Within few weeks the small village will transform in to green village. After one month, 45,000 liter water tanks will operate to distribute water for villagers. Sufficient water will increase crop production at village. They will have better nutrition and income from the sale of produce. “Having plenty of water will make it easier for us to have home-vegetable gardens. We expect tangible impact especially in Keraghari and neighborhoods of the municipality, said Rajendra Prased Sapkota chairman of user group. Families will have found the opportunity to earn income through livestock and agriculture. Through the support on pipeline system more than 1,000 people will benefited.
“We are committed to making every day better for people,” said Beni Karki, president of CHFN. The project will provide clean and safe drinking water for 190 households and one school. “Access to clean drinking water is vital to human health I’m really happy for the support, it’s a big help. Now we will have enough water” said Prem Bisunke, a member of user group.