Water Supply Project and Collaboration in Namsaling, Ilam

In Collaboration with EWB CU Boulder and Local Partners

On December 20, 2025, Engineers Without Borders (EWB) Pulchowk, in partnership with EWB CU Boulder, Nepal Community Development Center (NCDC), and local teams, conducted fieldwork for the water supply project in Hatittar and initiated a new project in Amangtar, both in Namsaling, Ilam. As part of the Winter Travel Team 2025, the initiative strengthened international collaboration while addressing community needs for reliable drinking water. The program focused on system maintenance, surveys, and planning, integrating advanced technologies like RTK and GNSS surveys to enhance accuracy and sustainability.

The fieldwork began with team introductions on December 17, 2025, fostering cultural exchange and coordination through visits to Patan, Swayambunath Temple, and Boudha Stupa. Upon arriving in Ilam on December 20, the team explored local sites like Mai Pokhari and the NCDC office before diving into technical activities from December 20, 2025, to January 3, 2026. In Hatittar, the team inspected the spring source, cleaned the dam, removed silt, tested water pressure, and performed pipe washouts, successfully handing over the system to the community. A preliminary survey in Dubiltar was discontinued due to community issues, shifting focus to Amangtar, where initial inspections, water quality tests, flow measurements, and raw data collection supported planning for 13 households.

The fieldwork had a profound impact, equipping the team with skills in geotechnical assessments, RTK/GNSS surveying, and cross-cultural collaboration while delivering tangible improvements to Hatittar’s 20 households. Community engagement, including shared Christmas and New Year celebrations, built lasting bonds and ensured local ownership. Participants gained insights into sustainable development, inspiring ongoing involvement in similar initiatives.