Sindhupalchowk, April 28: The indigenous Majhi community, traditionally dependent on fishing, is facing a growing livelihood crisis due to increasing encroachment and environmental degradation of rivers.
Batule Majhi, a resident of Bhimtar in Indrawati Rural Municipality–11, represents many in the community whose age-old occupation is now under threat. Unregulated quarrying, pesticide use, and destructive development practices have severely impacted fish populations in the Indrawati River.
Padam Bahadur Majhi recalls starting fishing at the age of eight, when the river was rich in fish. “We used to catch plenty whenever we cast our nets,” he said. “Now, we spend the entire day and return with barely 100 grams.”
Despite the challenges, many like Nawaraj Majhi continue fishing. Locals say more than 24 crusher industries operate along a 38-kilometre stretch from Dolalghat to Melamchi, significantly altering the river’s natural flow.
Encroachment and quarrying have also destroyed natural fish food sources such as lichen and yeast, disrupting aquatic ecosystems. A study by the Department of Environment shows a 30 percent decline in fish reproduction rates in small and medium rivers.
As livelihoods shrink, at least four fishing families have already left Bhimtar in search of alternative work.
The impact goes beyond income. Traditional tools such as water boats, khoga, and dadhiyā are now rarely used, signalling a loss of cultural heritage.
Community members say unchecked industrial activity is not only undermining their economic stability but also eroding their identity. They accuse both federal and local authorities of ignoring their concerns in the name of development and revenue generation. #Nepal
