Koshi Province has passed a landmark bill that officially recognizes access to clean and safe drinking water and sanitation as a legal right, not just a basic service. This move marks a shift toward implementing constitutional guarantees at the provincial level.
Water bill unanimously approved
The bill, titled “Koshi Province Drinking Water and Sanitation Management Act, 2081”, was unanimously passed in the provincial assembly on Friday. It was originally tabled on Magh 9 earlier this year. With this, the province aims to ensure that clean water is treated as essential to public health, dignity, and quality of life.
“This bill isn’t just about getting water through taps. It connects directly with the health and dignity of citizens,” said Minister for Water Supply, Irrigation and Energy, Ekaraj Karki, while presenting the bill.
Building on constitutional rights
Nepal’s constitution already guarantees access to water and sanitation as a fundamental right. While the federal government enacted the Water and Sanitation Act, 2079, Koshi Province introduced its own legislation to better address local needs and strengthen service delivery at the provincial level.
Under the new bill, water will no longer be treated as a general service but as a legal right of every citizen. The provincial government will oversee the construction, operation, regulation, and quality control of water services.
Special focus on inclusivity and quality
The bill includes a provision for free tap installations for at least 10% of households from economically weaker backgrounds. Marginalized groups, including Dalits, single women, and low-income families, will receive discounts on service charges.
Strict penalties will be imposed on those operating water services without registration. If contaminated water causes health issues, the responsible parties must provide compensation. The government will also establish laboratories for regular water quality monitoring.
Digital mapping and local coordination
The bill outlines plans for an integrated digital map of water sources, pipelines, sewage systems, and purification plants. This mapping will aid in long-term planning, disaster response, and resource management.
To ensure coordinated implementation, an 11-member provincial coordination committee will be formed. Similar committees will be set up at the district level to work closely with local governments.
Community-centered approach
The bill emphasizes cooperation between consumers, communities, private entities, and government agencies. It also promotes the construction of child-friendly toilets, women-friendly sanitation centers, and eco-friendly infrastructure.
“We brought this bill to send a message that drinking water is just as much a human right as health, education, or employment,” Minister Karki said.
