Surkhet, July 8 -- Along the winding banks of the Bheri river, thousands of lives and livelihoods are intricately tied to its waters. For many like Ranjan Badi, aged 39, of Radi in ward 9 of Athbiskot Municipality of West Rukum, the river is more than a source of income-it's a legacy.

"Every evening I set a trap in the Thuli Bheri. By morning, I collect around three to four kilograms of fish," said Ranjan. "That's how I feed my family and pay for my children's education." His wife Janaki collects sand from the river during the day, while their two sons, Sudan and Gaurab, help when they can.

This riverside way of life spans generations. Ranjan's grandfather and father lived and worked along the Bheri, and he had no desire to leave. "Even...