Mustang, April 27: Water sources in Mustang, a mountainous district in Gandaki Province, are gradually depleting, leading to severe challenges for farmers managing water for livestock and agriculture.
Locals say the region has been experiencing higher temperatures in recent years, which they believe is a consequence of climate change. This shift has significantly impacted local water resources, it has been said.
During recent gatherings held in Gharpajhong and Varagung Muktichhetra rural municipalities, the local’ expressed concern over the dwindling water sources, adversely affecting agricultural practices and livestock farming.
Deepak Sherchan from the Local Water Consumers Committee from Jomsom stated that the growing shortage of water is directly linked to the depletion of natural sources.
On the one hand the natural water sources are vanishing while on the other hand the number of households in Jomsom is increasing. Now, it has become increasingly difficult to meet the water demands for household use, animals, and farming. He urged the authorities to explore alternative solutions to address the crisis.
“Apple farming yields enough fruit in one year, but production drops drastically the next,” said one farmer, highlighting the unpredictable impact of water scarcity.
An animal farmer from Gharpajhong stated that highlands in Mustang have not received snowfall lately, preventing vegetation growth. This has severely impacted yak rearing. Furthermore, due to the lack of vegetation in the highlands, wildlife has started to descend into human settlements in search of food, raising additional concerns for locals. #mustang #nepal #gandaki
