KATHMANDU, MARCH 21 A new United Nations report has warned that gender inequality continues to exacerbate the global water crisis, disproportionately affecting women and girls. The United Nations World Water Development Report, released by UNESCO on behalf of UN-Water ahead of World Water Day, states that women are responsible for collecting water in more than 70 percent of households without access to basic services. The report estimates that women and girls spend a combined 250 million hours daily collecting water, often at the cost of education, employment and health. It further notes that 2.1 billion people worldwide still lack safely managed drinking water, with women and girls facing increased risks, including physical strain and exposure to gender-based violence. Despite their central role, women remain underrepresented in water governance and decision-making, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where they account for less than one in five workers in water utilities. The report calls for urgent measures, including removing legal and financial barriers, increasing gender-responsive investment, improving data systems and strengthening women's participation in water management. UN officials stressed that ensuring equal access to water and leadership opportunities is essential for sustainable development and social equity.