State’s 44 Crore Investment Goes to Waste on Daroudi Water Project in Prachanda’s Constituency

Summary:

• The Daroudi Lifting Drinking Water Project in Gorkha Municipality, which cost around NPR 44 crore, was designed to provide clean and sufficient drinking water to thousands of residents across more than six wards (3,4,5,6,7,8). The project aimed to pump water from the Daroudi River to elevated tanks and distribute it 24/7.

• Despite being completed in Chaitra 2078 (March-April 2022), the project has been non-functional for over three years and has failed to deliver even a drop of water. Structures and equipment have become dilapidated, with tanks covered in debris and mud, motors rusting or broken, and electrical panels damaged.

• Initial operation lasted only about three months before stopping due to unpaid electricity bills. Political disputes, mismanagement, and lack of accountability have contributed to the project's failure.

• The project lies within Gorkha-2, the electoral area of Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, a former prime minister and current opposition leader. Locals express frustration over leadership’s neglect despite his high political stature.

• The water management committee formed after construction faced allegations of fund misappropriation and lack of transparency. Conflicts between local consumer groups and municipal authorities further stalled operations.

• In Magh 2081 (January-February 2025), responsibility was transferred to the Gorkha Municipality Water Supply and Sanitation Management Board, chaired by the municipal mayor Krishna Bahadur Rana Magar. The board plans to restart operations, with some budget allocated for electricity payments and maintenance.

• Local consumer groups have expressed willingness to buy water at scientific prices if the system operates properly.

• Despite renewed efforts by the municipality, locals remain skeptical due to past disappointments. Without coordinated action free from political interests, the huge investment risks remaining unused, leaving residents thirsty for years to come.

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