Rasuwa
In particular in the Rasuw District north of Kathmandu, NRA already accomplished
several water irrigation projects. This is done in cooperation with the local NGO
Deprosc. These projects open the possibility of an additional harvesting period
and extend the variety of cultivated plants. Thus we aim to improve the income
of the local people.
So far people grow mainly potatoes and wheat. There are nearly no fruits growing in
a noteworthy amount. By enriching the daily diet we also hope to improve the
health of the farmers and their families.
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In accordance with the principle of assistance to self help, a village community has to approach our partner organisation Deprosc requesting a water irrigation scheme in their community. The NGO´s experts evaluate the local conditions and develop together with the villagers a concept for building and maintaining the scheme. Further on it is the community, who constructs and maintains the system. In order to make this possible, Deprosc accompanies this work with necessary expertise and experience. On the other hand, a monthly contribution in paid by each household to create savings for necessary future repair costs. In some projects, this structure is also used to introduce a microfinance system which is likewise administered by the local community.
The irrigated surface of one project covers usually about 30ha, reaching 30-50 families. The water originates from sources far above the village, to ensure sufficient water pressure. Only a small part of the source water is used in order to avoid disturbances of the ecosystem.
Over storage tanks and pressure balance chambers the water is led into the fields where in regular distances water taps are installed. The terminals. hoses or sprinklers are provided by the respective farmer and are his property. It is again the village community who has to care for fair and balanced use of the taps.
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By 2006 NRA has installed 15 water irrigation systems in Rasuwa and Nuwakot district. Repeated visits of board members showed, that the technical system is appropriate and functioning very well with only little need of repair. In cases of disturbances Deprosc is always available to support the villagers in fixing the problem.
In already finished projects for example apple are planted and their apples sold not only on local, but also on markets in Kathmandu, thus generating a good additional income. One farmer told us, that he is now able to send his children to a school in Kathmandu, which was impossible before. Talking to the community, they are pleased with the outcome of the project, referring to additional harvesting periods and to a growing variety of cultivated plants.
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