KATHMANDU: The Government of Japan has decided to extend grant assistance up to NRs. 2.7 billion to Nepal for the improvement of water supply system in Biratnagar Metropolitan City.
Mr. KIKUTA Yutaka, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and Madhu Kumar Marasini, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance signed notes to this effect on Thursday.
Another Grant Agreement for implementing the project was signed by OKUBO Akimitsu, Chief Representative of JICA Nepal, and Ishwori Prasad Aryal, Joint Secretary, the International Economic Cooperation and Coordination Division of the Ministry of Finance.
This project aims to enhance the living standard for the people of Biratnagar city by renovating and expanding the water supply facilities, thereby broadening the water supply area in Biratnagar Metropolitan City.
At present, people in Biratnagar have to depend on shallow wells to get water for daily household use and have been affected by shortage of safe drinking water. This project will contribute to improving “access to stable supply of water” for about 100,000 people by constructing new deep wells and water purification facilities. Furthermore, some of the existing facilities will also be renovated, the Japanese Embassy in Kathmandu said.
On the occasion of signing the notes, Ambassador KIKUTA stated that “the Government of Japan has been providing multifaceted assistance for the betterment of the living standard of Nepali citizens”.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan extended multiple support, including timely vaccine support to prevent and control the COVID-19.
Likewise, Japan has extended financial support for economic stabilization and development of post COVID-19 Nepal in January. Ambassador KIKUTA further stated that “This time, our assistants is providing safe water which is of vital importance for human life”, and expressed his hope that this support will be effectively utilized to upgrade living standards in Biratnagar City.
The Embassy of Japan is committed to extending all possible assistance to Nepal in its endeavor for nation building and strengthening the friendly relationship between the peoples of Japan and Nepal.
