Mahakali Irrigation Project awaits water supply despite finished structures

Structures intended to deliver irrigation to five thousand hectares stand ready, but water remains unavailable because the Indian side has not released it from Tanakpur. Although the construction concluded years ago, the channel has stayed dry. A test of the completed canal occurred four years ago, during which water from Tanakpur was used to observe a paddy celebration. Officials note that no further water release has happened since that initial test. Project Director Marasini expressed optimism that water operations could resume if higher authorities initiate diplomatic efforts. Discussions involving officials from both nations took place in Kathmandu recently to address the situation. Marasini mentioned that requested details from both the ministry and the Indian side have been provided, expressing hope that water will soon flow through the canal. According to the provisions of the Mahakali Treaty, the Indian side finished constructing the one thousand two hundred metre canal section required to reach the border from Tanakpur. The third phase of the project successfully prepared the infrastructure to supply irrigation across five thousand hectares. Furthermore, a twenty-eight kilometre main canal stretching from the starting point to Phuleli in Shuklaphanta Municipality has been finished for years. The acceleration of construction followed the inclusion of the venture as a national pride project during the fiscal year २०७६/७७ [2076/77]. For the current fiscal year, approximately Rs two अर्ब [billion] has been allocated towards the undertaking. Officials continue to coordinate closely and share necessary documentation, awaiting a resolution that will finally allow water to enter the completed network.