Sindhupalchok, March 31 -- fertile farmlands of Ramche in ward 9 of Bahrabise Municipality now lie fallow and desolate due to a severe water crisis. These lands, which would be adorned with mustard and vegetables during this season until a few years back, are uncultivated.

Farmers are unable to cultivate their land and grow crops and vegetables due to unreliable rains and lack of irrigation. Even the nearby Andheri stream is gradually drying up due to reduced rainfall. As traditional water sources gradually disappear, local farmers are struggling to sustain their crops, leaving their fields fallow.

With the prolonged drought, residents are scrambling to collect water from stone spouts, leading to frequent disputes. "The main reason for ...