KATHMANDU: The Melamchi Water Supply Development Board (MWSDB) has opted not to immediately cease operations at the main source of the Melamchi Drinking Water Project in Ambathan, Sindhupalchowk, despite previous plans to shut down starting today. This decision follows the observation of insufficient water flow in the Melamchi River from today onward, prompting caution in water distribution to designated areas.

Initially, the government had planned to suspend the project due to the anticipated increase in water flow in the Melamchi River with the onset of the monsoon season in Bagmati Province. However, Ratna Lamichhane, executive director of MWSDB, explained that current observations indicate no significant rise in water levels and the water quality remains satisfactory. Therefore, the immediate cessation of the project has been deemed unnecessary at this time, and water distribution will proceed cautiously.

Lamichhane highlighted that although advisors and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) had recommended temporary suspension to mitigate monsoon-related risks, operations will continue as they assess the evolving situation. Plans are in place to halt water supply temporarily during heavy rainfall to safeguard water distribution points, with the intention to resume supply once the monsoon subsides.

The South Asian monsoon arrived in Nepal on June 13 this year, earlier than usual, according to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM). The monsoon season typically lasts until October 2 and currently covers the entire country except for Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces, as per DHM reports.