Scope of Payment for Ecosystem Services Mechanism for ... - icimod

the water in the rivers is decreasing. They put the blame largely upon people living inthe water catchment area for haphazard water withdrawal.The watershed of Mahadev Khola is recharged by 7 Community Forests (CF) in 3VDCs of Bhaktapur and Kavre Palanchowk district. The population in the 3 VDC is15,617 in 2011 while in there are 64,810 people living in Ward no 1 to 10, parts of 11and 14).The water from the rivers is also used for irrigation and numerous industries near theriver. The demand of water is increasing with growing population in the Municipality.The climatic condition is also affecting the hydrological cycle which is simultaneouslyaffecting the source of the MKW, and its natural water storage potential.The water scarcity problem in Bhaktapur town is due to the wide gap between demandand supply. The severity of water scarcity peaks during the dry season when watersupply is significantly reduces due to reduced water in the rivers. A number of factorsmay be involved- land cover change, population increase, water usage, water extractionand climate change amongst others. It is important to understand the root reasons for theincreasing water scarcity before solutions can be sought. This study focused on the keyfactors that have a bearing on water availability, reduces water supply, potentialsolutions to water scarcity problem and perceptions of upstream and town communitiesand relevant institutions.The following research questions were developed prior to the commencement of research:Research Question1. What is the real problem (leading to water scarcity)2. Who are the factors causing the problem?3. What are possible solutions?4. Can PES mechanisms be part of the solution?3