Lalitpur, Apr. 6: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Pampha Bhusal viewed that we should reap economic benefits through integrated management and multiple uses of water resources.

At a programme organized by the Department of Water Resources and Irrigation and various research organizations related to the water resources sector here today, Minister argued that natural resources were the mainstay of socio-economic development of the country and drew the attention of stakeholders agencies towards proper utilization of the natural resources.

Stating that there were challenges in water management, Bhusal asserted, "More than 80 per cent of the water is available during the monsoon season. In lack of proper utilization of the water, we are forced to deal with natural disasters such as landslides and floods incurring huge financial losses every year.

Attributing the lack of water during dry seasons for drinking water, irrigation and electricity generation due to the effects of climate change on biodiversity, the Minister explained, "Glaciers are melting due to the effects of climate change and natural disasters like heavy rainfall and drought are affecting overall sectors."

She spoke of the need to find a solution to the problem by conducting integrated research and study on the impact on energy and food crisis, conservation of biodiversity, development and management of water resources.

Furthermore, Minister Bhusal was hopeful that the development of a climate-friendly irrigation system would help in reducing the existing agriculture trade deficit by increasing productivity.

Similarly, Buddha Bahadur Gurung, a member of the Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission underscored the integrated utilization of water resources, arguing that the right management of water resources could aid in the socio-economic development of the country.

Likewise, National Planning Commission member Saloni Pradhan Singh stressed the need to strengthen the economic system through proper utilization of water resources.