The Coca-Cola Foundation hands over Kalitar Sustainable WASH Project

KATHMANDU: The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF), in partnership with the Centre for Integrated Urban Development (CIUD), WaterAid Nepal (WAN), and Godawari Municipality, announced the successful handover of Kalitar Sustainable WASH Project in the Kalitar area of Godawari Municipality-6, Lalitpur district. 

The project's objective is to provide safe, ample, accessible, and affordable drinking water to 148 households and to enhance the hygiene practices of the residents. The official handover ceremony took place on February 15, 2024, presided over by Ward 6 Chairperson Bishnuman Maharjan. Udaya Shumsher Rana, former minister and lawmaker from Lalitpur Metropolitan City-1, served as the Chief Guest for the event.

The project focuses on three key areas. Firstly, it involves a comprehensive overhaul of the existing drinking water system, which includes the installation of two intakes, upgrading two reservoir tanks, laying a 2766-metre transmission line, and establishing a 3702-metre distribution network. This also involves connecting 148 households and three temples with household taps equipped with water meters. Secondly, the project aims to improve community sanitation practices. Lastly, it focuses on capacity building for existing user committees and implementing activities to foster positive hygiene behaviour changes within the community.

Lele faced numerous challenges following the devastating earthquake in 2015. Many spring sources dried up, and unplanned road construction exacerbated the situation, affecting the flow of springs and causing landslides that further damaged water sources. TCCF is assisting in rebuilding the infrastructure, leading to improved access to safe water for this community. Furthermore, TCCF is expanding the project further in this region as their next phase has been approved.

TCCF President Saadia Madsbjerg expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We are committed to creating sustainable communities, and this project aligns perfectly with that vision. By improving water infrastructure, sanitation, and promoting positive behavioural changes, we aim to make a lasting and meaningful impact on the well-being of the community. Clean water is fundamental to community health, and we are proud to support initiatives that bring about positive change."

During the handover ceremony, Ward Chairperson Maharjan expressed his gratitude, saying, "In the spirit of community, I extend my sincere thanks for the project's success and its positive impact on our residents. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to TCCF, WaterAid, and CIUD for their invaluable contributions. We hope for similar support for the community from TCCF in the future too."

Chief guest Rana praised the project's impact, stating, "I appreciate TCCF, WaterAid, and CIUD for their collaborative efforts in bringing about positive change in our community. Access to clean water is a fundamental right, and initiatives like these contribute significantly to our well-being."

With a mission to make a difference in communities worldwide, TCCF has been providing sustainable access to safe water, building climate resilience, promoting a circular economy, economic empowerment, and responding to disasters. Aligning with TCCF’s objectives of providing access to water resources, promoting water conservation, and using water for multiple uses, WWF Nepal has been leveraging our extensive experience in partnering with the Government of Nepal on wetland restoration to realise the project goal through three major objectives: Construction of wetlands, supporting in water replenishment and Capacity building of local communities and people.