Minister Bhusal emphasizes proper management of water resources

LALITPUR: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Pampha Bhusal viewed that economic benefits result from integrated management and multiple uses of water resources. At a programme organised by Department of Water Resources and Irrigation and various research organisations related to the water resources sector, on Wednesday, Minister Bhusal argued that natural resources were the mainstay of socio-economic development of the country and drew the attention of stakeholder agencies toward proper utilisation of the natural resources. Stating that there were challenges in water management, Bhusal asserted, "More than 80% of the water is available during the monsoon season. In lack of proper utilisation of the water, we are forced to deal with natural disasters such as landslides and floods incurring us huge financial loss every year. Attributing the lack of water during dry seasons for drinking water, irrigation and electricity generation due to effects of climate change on biodiversity, the Minister explained, "Glaciers are melting due to climate change, and natural disasters like heavy rainfall and drought are affecting overall sectors." She spoke of the need to find solution to the problem by conducting integrated research and study on impact on energy and food crisis, conservation of biodiversity, development and management of water resources. Furthermore, Minister Bhusal was hopeful that the development of climate-friendly irrigation system would help in reducing the existing agriculture trade deficit by increasing productivity. Similarly, Buddha Bahadur Gurung, a member of Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission, underscored the integrated utilisation of water resources, arguing that the right management of water resources could aid in socio-economic development of the country. Likewise, National Planning Commission member Saloni Pradhan Singh stressed the need to strengthen the economic system through proper utilisation of water resources. By RSS READ ALSO:

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