Discussion Between Minister Yadav and Indian Government Expert Teams on Solving the Drinking Water Problem in the Terai–Madhesh Region

Kathmandu — Minister for Drinking Water Pradeep Yadav and expert teams from the Government of India held extensive discussions on resolving the drinking water problem in the Terai–Madhesh region.

According to Ministry Spokesperson and Joint Secretary Meena Shrestha, the in-depth discussion took place yesterday at the ministry, upon the special invitation of Minister Yadav, focusing on the water crisis in Madhesh Province and its long-term solutions.

She informed that the team will visit crisis-hit districts of the Terai–Madhesh starting today, Tuesday, to conduct on-site inspections and work on preparing the necessary action plans for problem resolution.

During the discussion, Minister Yadav said that the drinking water crisis is most severe in Birgunj Metropolitan City, while various wards in Bara and other districts are also facing serious challenges due to water shortages.

He stated, “The drinking water crisis is particularly acute in Birgunj Metropolitan City, and the lack of water is creating severe challenges. It is essential to resolve this issue.”

Similarly, he emphasized that the Government of Nepal is committed to making Nepal–India cooperation more effective and result-oriented, with the aim of bringing positive change to the lives of the people of Madhesh Province.

Minister Yadav said that today’s cooperation was made possible as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed a few months ago with India’s Ministry of Jal Shakti, and expressed confidence that this would further strengthen Nepal–India relations.

Also present in today’s meeting with the Indian expert team were Ministry Secretary Er. Pramiladevi Shakya Bajracharya, Joint Secretaries Meena Shrestha and Kamal Raj Shrestha, Director General of the Department of Water Supply and Sewerage Management Er. Ram Kumar Shrestha, Deputy Director General Narayan Prasad Acharya, and Chief of the Melamchi Development Committee Ratna Prasad Lamichhane.

From the Indian expert team’s side, participants included Prashant Rai, Regional Director from Dehradun; Jagadamba Prasad; Ashish Pandey, Water Supply and Sanitation Advisor from Lucknow; among others.