From Thirst to Relief: Two Remote Villages in Nepal Receive the Gift of Clean Water

In a transformative act of compassion and care, Believers Eastern Church Archdiocese of Kathmandu has brought new hope to the remote villages of Bhalukhop and Satrakatha in Nepal’s Sarlahi district by installing two much-needed water supply systems. Nestled among rolling hills and home to the resilient Magar community, these villages had long endured the burden of extreme water scarcity.

With no basic infrastructure in place, the only source of water for the 45 families in these two villages was a single stream that ran through the center of the community. Each day, villagers queued at dawn and dusk to collect water, only to find the stream drying up after a few households had drawn their share. Summers made the situation even more dire, with barely a trickle available, while the monsoon season turned the stream into a source of muddy, undrinkable water. Despite these challenges, the people shared what little they had, surviving with grit and unity.

Moved by their plight, two priests from the local Believers Eastern Church parish brought the matter to the attention of the Archdiocesan leaders. Responding with urgency and compassion, the Archdiocese approved and supported the construction of two water taps—one in each village.

With no road access, the villagers themselves carried construction materials such as bricks and sand on their backs from distant locations. Through their determination and with guidance from the church, the taps were completed—marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Diocesan Vicar of Chandrapur Diocese and several clergy members. The atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude as villagers expressed their heartfelt thanks to the church for making a once-unimaginable dream come true.

Amar Bahadur Ale Magar shared, “For years, we struggled to fetch enough water, often waiting in long lines at the stream. Sometimes, the well dried up before we could fill our containers. But now, thanks to this water tap, we no longer wake up with the fear of running out of water.”

Ganga Lal Magar added, “Before, we had to ration water carefully, worrying if there would be enough for cooking or cleaning. But today, we have clean water whenever we need it. It is a blessing beyond words.”

Goma Rana Magar, reflecting as a mother, said, “I have seen my children grow up drinking muddy water because that was all we had. But now, they can drink clean water every day without worry.”

Prem Magar, a local farmer, noted the impact on agriculture, “With this water supply, I can finally take care of my land and animals properly. I feel a deep sense of relief and gratitude.”

Bhuwan Magar concluded, “There were days when we had to walk far just to find a little water. Now, water is right here in our village. It is a true blessing.”

Thanks to the timely intervention of the Archdiocese of Kathmandu, the people of Bhalukhop and Satrakatha can now enjoy a life with dignity, health, and hope—fueled by the gift of clean water.