Springs in the Godavari landscape, Nepal: Mapping, governance, and revival. Working paper

Godavari, situated in the southern part of Kathmandu Valley, is home to high-discharge perennial springs. Communities here depend largely on these springs for drinking, and for domestic and agricultural use. Springs in Godavari have been under stress for varied reasons, including the in-migration of people into the region, the increasing demand for water in Kathmandu Valley, and a long-term decline in rainfall in the area. In addition, four springs dried up following the major earthquake of April 2015, resulting in decreased water availability for all users. To address these stressors and identify knowledge gaps, this study maps springs and springsheds in Godavari, identifies the recharge areas of selected springs, and recommends improved options for springshed management and spring revival.