Nepal, April 15 -- Nepal has abundant water resources, yet drinking water problems continue to dog the country. Walking for several hours just to fetch a bucket of water is a daily routine for many in rural areas. Yet there is water scarcity in the cities too. Take Kathmandu. Despite promises to end Kathmanduities' thirst through the Melamchi Water Supply Project, poor management and insufficient supply continue to hinder smooth supply. Long queues at public taps are a common sight in other urban areas as well.

Likewise, far-flung areas are severely hit by water scarcity, as limited water sources often run dry. For instance, in Doti district's Dallekh village in ward 6 of Sayal Rural Municipality, there's only one tap for 58 households a...