The Ministry of Water Supply has announced investments totalling nearly NPR 300 billion across 240 ongoing projects aimed at improving drinking water and sewerage infrastructure nationwide. Despite this substantial commitment, official figures reveal that only 29% of Nepal’s population currently has access to safe drinking water.
Massive Investment in Nationwide Infrastructure
Out of the 240 projects, 221 focus on drinking water supply while 19 target sewerage management. The ministry confirmed that the total contract value stands at NPR 273.58 billion, excluding the Melamchi Water Supply Project.
According to Joint Secretary Kamal Raj Shrestha, the projects are funded not only by foreign grants and loans but also through significant contributions from the federal government and local consumers.
“Completion timelines depend on several factors, including budget availability and contractor performance,” said Shrestha.
“Based on the current agreements, we expect all projects to be completed by FY 2085/86.”
Funding Commitments and Payment Status
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Total project value: NPR 273.58 billion
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Amount paid so far: NPR 18.85 billion
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Outstanding liability: NPR 254.73 billion
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Payment schedule: Remaining funds to be released gradually over four years
Despite the huge financial obligations, the ministry stated it is not under immediate budgetary pressure, as construction remains ongoing and payments will be made in phases.
SDG Target at Risk
Under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Nepal aims to provide 90% of households with safe drinking water by 2030. However, ministry officials are concerned that this goal may not be achieved.
Currently:
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29% of the population has access to safe drinking water
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90% have access to basic water supply
With safe water access increasing by just 2% annually, projections show that only 42% of the population will have access by 2030.
“At the current pace, the SDG target appears out of reach,” Shrestha admitted.
“Even if the Melamchi Project operates year-round, safe water access will only improve by 6% to 7%.”
Melamchi Delays Add to the Challenge
The Melamchi Water Supply Project, intended to supply Kathmandu year-round, remains incomplete. Officials estimate it will take another four to five years before the system becomes fully operational, limiting its short-term impact on water accessibility.
Federalism and Coordination Issues
After federalisation, the ministry reduced its regional offices from 20 to 15 but remains responsible for managing water services across all 77 districts. While the Constitution defines water supply as a shared responsibility among federal, provincial, and local governments, officials admit that poor coordination has slowed progress.
“There is competition among all three levels of government to announce projects,” Shrestha explained.
“But when it comes to execution, everyone shifts the responsibility to others, citing budget shortages or capacity issues.”
Right to Safe Water Remains Unfulfilled
The Constitution of Nepal recognises access to safe and healthy drinking water as a fundamental right. However, ministry officials acknowledge that limited funding, slow implementation, and weak coordination continue to hinder progress towards ensuring safe water for all citizens.