BUTWAL, OCTOBER 16

The Jadishpur Reservoir, Nepal's first man-made reservoir created for agricultural irrigation, serves as a crucial habitat for hundreds of bird species, diverse flora, and rich biodiversity. However, it now faces significant threats from accumulating sand deposits and the spread of invasive plant species.

Currently, nearly one-third of the reservoir's area has been compromised by sand deposition and the unchecked growth of these invasive species, posing a serious threat to the region's ecological diversity.

Recognized under the Ramsar Convention, the 225-hectare (556-acre) reservoir, located in the Jahadi Village Development Committee of Kapilvastu district, was designated a Wetland of International Importance in 2003. Despite being one of the country's largest reservoirs and a vital wetland, it has not received sufficient government attention for its maintenance and conservation.

Lalit Gurung, Chairperson of the Jadishpur Reservoir Multifaceted Protection Forum, stressed the importance of advancing both wetland conservation and tourism development. He noted that existing wetland policies have hindered progress in these areas.

'Recent amendments have allowed us to initiate some improvements, like paving footpaths with interlocking blocks and introducing five recreational boats on the lake. However, there remains significant confusion among the government, bird experts, and locals about the reservoir's operational framework,' Gurung said.

Referring to the accumulation of sand and the proliferation of invasive plant species in the reservoir, Gurung urged the concerned authorities to take prompt action before the situation further degrades the reservoir's beauty and poses a significant threat to the local biodiversity.

He called on the authorities to install a 12-inch artesian tube well to sustain water levels during the dry season, citing the reduced water supply from nearby rivers. Gurung also emphasized the need for a dedicated security checkpost to safeguard the reservoir's maintenance and preservation. 'We have been managing the reservoir voluntarily without any substantial support from the relevant authorities,' he remarked.

Gurung explained that their primary source of income comes from leasing boat contracts, generating between NPR 500,000 to 700,000 annually, which is used to maintain the reservoir. 'We organize an annual wetland conference, but security remains our biggest challenge. Illegal hunting and cattle grazing continue to be issues. We've proposed establishing four security posts to the authorities, but no action has been taken.'

While there is a police post nearby, Gurung pointed out that its focus is on areas outside the reservoir rather than within it. He reiterated the need for dedicated security posts and the importance of installing the artesian tube well to maintain water levels year-round.

'Currently, we have only one employee managing the reservoir, and their salary is paid by the Ministry of Forests and Environment,' he added.

Badri Raj Dhungana, spokesperson for the Ministry of Forests and Environment, stated, 'To truly appreciate the significance of Jadishpur Lake, we must reflect on its history. Initially created for irrigation, it later evolved into a wetland supporting birds and biodiversity.'

He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts, particularly involving the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, alongside collaboration across all levels of government. 'While we have an action plan in place, implementation has fallen short due to a lack of adequate resources to manage these wetlands,' Dhungana explained.

Local activist Rajendra Bikram Shah Thakuri held the relevant authorities accountable for undermining the reservoir's importance. 'Sand deposition and the unchecked spread of invasive plant species have marred the lake's beauty and endangered its bird habitat and overall biodiversity.'

Shah urged authorities to collaborate with local agencies, including municipalities and development committees, to better utilize resources for the benefit of the community. He also highlighted the potential for tourism development, fish farming, and enhanced bird watching facilities.

Baburam Bhattarai, one of three individuals responsible for regulating water flow into the Jadishpur Reservoir, noted, 'We manage the water flow into the lake,' but added that maintenance and repairs are overseen by higher authorities, including engineers.

Gurung also mentioned that during peak season, at least 20,000 migratory birds visit the reservoir, making it a bird-watching paradise for both domestic and international tourists.

All the photos of Jadishpur Reservoir are captured by Mausam Shah 'Nepali' for The Himalayan Times.