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 mechanisms.