Government finalizes draft for new water resources management law

The government is accelerating efforts to introduce a new umbrella law on water resources management in line with the federal structure. The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation has completed revisions of the draft ‘Water Resources Bill 2083’ and is preparing to move it forward for approval.

The bill aims to replace the existing Water Resources Act of 2049, providing a legal basis for the distribution of powers among the federal, provincial, and local levels as outlined in the constitution. Once enacted, provinces and local governments will be able to formulate their own laws within their jurisdiction. According to the ministry, the bill’s main objective is to ensure the conservation, multifaceted use, and proper development of water resources.

Additionally, the bill prioritizes disaster risk reduction, sustainable use, and integrated management of water resources. It proposes to empower the Secretariat of the Water and Energy Commission with more authority. The ministry plans to develop the Secretariat as the key body for regulation, policy coordination, and long-term planning of water resources.

The commission’s existing scope of work is being expanded with additional responsibilities. The ministry is also working on drafting necessary regulations in parallel with the bill to facilitate smooth implementation once the law is passed.

The government aims to have the bill passed in the current session of Parliament. To achieve this, preparations are underway to present the draft to the Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs and the Cabinet for approval by the first week of Jestha.

The lack of a clear legal framework for water resources management under the federal structure has led to confusion among different levels of government regarding jurisdiction, project approval, and resource utilization. The new bill is expected to eliminate such ambiguities and institutionalize and streamline the development of water resources.