Kathmandu: World Water Day 2026 is being observed today with a range of programmes in Nepal and across the globe. Marked on March 22, this year’s observance carries the theme “Water and Gender” and the slogan “Where water flows, equality grows.”
The campaign highlights the link between water access, sanitation and gender equality, drawing attention to how women and girls are disproportionately affected by water scarcity and structural barriers.
In a message on the occasion, President Ramchandra Paudel called for collective effort among government agencies, development partners, civil society organisations and the general public to preserve water and ensure its sustainable use and equal access. He stressed the importance of ensuring equality, proportional participation and just access at all tiers of drinking water management.
The President stated that water forms the basis of life, health, prosperity and social justice, noting that from the earliest human civilizations to the present day, water has shaped all aspects of life. He added that ancient civilizations developed along riverbanks and that conserving nature and water to sustain life is becoming increasingly challenging.
He also highlighted the need to protect watershed areas to replenish groundwater resources and promote traditional practices such as constructing ponds and lakes in view of future water scarcity.
In a similar message, Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav emphasised the need for effective state policies to ensure equitable distribution and access to water. He said that water conservation and proper use is a shared responsibility.
He pointed out that groundwater levels are declining, particularly in the Tarai-Madhes, while springs and natural water sources in hilly regions are drying up. He stressed the importance of collective action to turn these challenges into opportunities, stating that water conservation is not only an environmental issue but also a matter of national existence and the future.
The United Nations has been marking March 22 as World Water Day every year since 1993 to raise awareness about the importance, conservation and sustainable use of water.
In Nepal, the day is being observed this year with various public awareness programmes carrying the message of the important role of water for gender equality.
