Bio-embankment construction begins to curb Doda River erosion in Kanchanpur

Kanchanpur. The construction of a bio-embankment has commenced in Binwari, Laljhadi Rural Municipality-1, which is at high risk of erosion from the Doda River. The rural municipality has begun building the approximately 600-meter-long embankment in a cost-sharing partnership with non-governmental organizations.

Rural Municipality Chairman Nirmal Rana stated that the project is being implemented in collaboration with organizations named PASWAN and NNSWA. According to him, the rural municipality has contributed 2,202,885 rupees, PASWAN 1,374,718 rupees, and NNSWA 766,084 rupees toward the project costs.

The local community will contribute labor equivalent to 135,000 rupees, and arrangements have been made to mobilize unskilled workers under the Prime Minister Employment Program.

The Doda River has been eroding land in the Binwari area every year. Chairman Rana explained that the work was initiated through a partnership after construction proved impossible due to limited budget. "We aim to complete the construction before the monsoon begins," he said.

According to PASWAN technician Janak Lekhak, the work of driving bamboo stakes for the embankment has already begun. "The structure is prepared by driving and weaving bamboo, after which geo-bags filled with soil are placed," he said, adding, "To make the embankment sustainable, deep-rooted plants like vetiver will be planted."

Once the embankment is completed, the land of more than 150 farmers in Binwari will be protected from river erosion. It is noted that bio-embankments are environmentally friendly and cost-effective, making them an effective long-term solution.