KATHMANDU: Newly appointed Minister for Drinking Water and Sanitation Bina Magar has expressed optimism that Melamchi drinking water would be supplied to Kathmandu denizens before Dashain festival.

Speaking at an interaction programme in the capital today, Minister Magar said "We have been working with a spirit of supplying Melamchi drinking water within Dashain festival. In accord, I have directed the concerned stakeholders to work accordingly. I urge Kathmandu denizens to remain optimistic about the project."

CPN Maoist Centre leader also reiterated as per the clause 35 of the Constitution of Nepal, access to drinking water is the fundamental rights of people.

"I recently visited the project site as it was halted for sometime. The construction has resumed after I gave necessary directives to the concerned stakeholders." Lawmaker Magar shared.

She further said at least 144 metres tunnel is remained to be dug. The construction company has remained optimistic that within 25 days tunnel break through would be achieved.

Minister Magar also said that Terai-Madhes Drinking Water Upgradation programme would be run effectively to address Arsenic problem in water of 22 Terai districts.

She also expressed determination to address water leakage problem in Kathmandu and other major cities in the country.

"I will put forth scientific programme to address issues seen in drinking water problem across the nation. We will bring equality in drinking water." Magar added.

"Access to healthy drinking water and clean environment are fundamental rights of people. I will work accordingly with that spirit during my tenure."

She also showed enthusiasm of making rafting and swimming friendly environment in Bagmati, Bishnumati and Dhobikhola rivers within few years.

Meanwhile, the government is preparing to declare 2075 as National Sanitation Year.