Locals of Jigaun Pachim Tole in Baijnath Rural Municipality-5 are facing significant challenges due to drinking water shortage. Residents of the 15 households in the area have been experiencing this problem since last year. Due to the unavailability of water, locals Jigaun Pachim Tole in Baijnath Rural Municipality-5 have been compelled to use a nearby canal for bathing as water supply through local taps has dried up.
According to local resident Khadga Bahadur Pun, prolonged use of canal water has caused skin irritation among many of them. In response to the ongoing crisis, the community collectively purchased a pipeline worth Rs. 15,000 to connect their households to a nearby livestock farm for access to water. Pun further stated that water is now being sourced through a boring system, and each household is paying Rs. 350 per month for the supply.
In mid-March, the water supply decreased, leading to a drinking water shortage in the settlement, according to Sonu Singh BK, the Chairperson of the Baijanath Rural Municipality level Human Rights Group. He stated that while there is water during the rainy season, the water sources dry up during the summer, making it difficult for everyone to access water as needed. Ward Chairperson of Baijnath Rural Municipality–5, Dev Bahadur Rawat, stated that they submitted recommendations twice last year to address the drinking water shortage affecting around 15 households in the area. He further mentioned that the ward office is actively engaged in efforts to resolve the issue.
