An inherent part of hill life
Seasonality is an inherent part of hill life13km from Mussoorie
An explosion of tourismPumping Stations, Dams, Hydropower
Moving water across greater distancesLaundry services
The Dhobighat community downstream of Mussoorie provides laundering services to the upstream town’s schools, hotels and government institutions. Washing is done along a natural stream which flows through the settlement, first inhabited by the dhobi (washing) community over 80 years ago. The livelihood of the dhobi community depends on clean, fast-running water. In recent times, they have been asked by local government to “share” their stream with other nearby settlements. This has given rise to a decline in water flow to the community, as well a breakdown in communal water-collection activities, disrupting both physical flows and social interactions. With youth out-migration and the advent of mechanised washing machines, the demand for washing services is declining, so these livelihoods look increasingly vulnerable.Water is not just physical systems
The delivery of water is not just about the construction of physical systems, but also creating suitable social and political infrastructures that can support the appropriation, management and distribution of resources to people. Creating water management systems that are environmentally sustainable and socially just requires the inclusion, participation and representation of all social layers. During May 2017, Nepal held its first local council elections in almost twenty years. At Dhulikhel, water provision to all areas of the town is a highly political issue, with candidates campaigning and competing on this issue to secure the votes of their constituents. Water politics did influence the outcome – a new mayor was elected who is committed to locally sourcing affordable water for town residents through low intervention...Lake is our greatest treasure and biggest challenge
A presentation and research summary of Nainital Lake by Dr Vishal Singh of the Centre for Ecology Development and Research (CEDAR).