Protecting the Narayani River Basin: A Collective Effort for a Sustainable Future
The Narayani River Conclave 2023, held on February 13–14, brought together a diverse group of participants committed to the long-term preservation of the Narayani River Basin. With the central theme “Healthy Rivers: Healthy Lives,” the conclave served as a platform for collaboration and dialogue between stakeholders, policymakers, academics, researchers, and emerging scholars.
The Narayani River, a lifeline for ecosystems, communities, and economies in the region, faces mounting challenges—pollution, unsustainable practices, and threats to aquatic biodiversity. Recognizing the urgency of action, the conclave aimed to address these issues through open discussions, knowledge sharing, and innovative solutions.
Promoting Dialogue and Technological Innovation
The conclave’s objectives were twofold:
- To facilitate dialogue among academicians, policymakers, researchers, and the broader community to collectively address challenges and opportunities.
- To implement technological innovations for sustainable watershed and biodiversity management, improved wetland health, wastewater treatment, and water harvesting solutions.
A key focus of the event was strengthening institutional frameworks, upstream-downstream relationships, and basin management offices to ensure a coordinated approach to river basin preservation.
Collaboration and Engagement: The Structure of the Conclave
The two-day conclave was carefully structured to encourage meaningful participation and discourse. Organized by WWF Nepal and SAHAMATI, and supported by institutions such as the Basin Management Centre, Gandaki, Gaindakot Municipality, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu University, and Lutheran World Relief, the event was a testament to the power of collaboration. Local partners, including colleges and universities, played a crucial role in engaging young graduates and students, ensuring that the next generation is involved in this important cause.
The event featured:
- Five sessions, each with expert presentations and robust discussions.
- Keynote and plenary addresses, highlighting opportunities, challenges, and success stories in river basin management.
- Panel discussions and interactive Q&A sessions, fostering dialogue between experts and participants.
- Scheduled breaks, including tea and lunch sessions, designed to promote informal discussions and networking.
The Narayani River is more than a waterway—it is the lifeblood of ecosystems, communities, and cultures. Preserving it is not just an environmental imperative but a moral responsibility shared by all.
The Narayani River Conclave 2023 was not just an event—it was the beginning of a movement to secure the health and sustainability of the Narayani River Basin. By uniting voices from different backgrounds, it laid the groundwork for actionable strategies and long-term solutions to protect this vital resource for generations to come.
