Palpa, April 24 -- A lack of budget has stalled drinking water projects in Lumbini Province, affecting 368 projects across 12 districts. Many have remained incomplete for years, with some dating back two decades.

Transferred from the federal government to the provincial government after 2017, the projects have received little priority from either level, leaving them in limbo. Consumers say the projects risk remaining unfinished as they are not a priority even for the provincial government.

The Anildhara lift drinking water project in Bhairabsthan, ward 4, Ribdikot Rural Municipality, Palpa, was initiated in the fiscal year 2007-08. The project, aimed at supplying clean drinking water to nearly 1,000 households, remains incomplete after ...