Assessment of Industrial Pollution in Dhobikhola river area:

Industrial pollution in Dhobikhola river	Furthermore, most activities have been undertaken without scientific study of the problem itself. As such, WATO-Nepal is adopting a scientific and multi-stakeholder approach to bring about sustainable change in addressing the problem of industrial pollution in the Dhobikhola river area. It is to build upon previous endeavors and initiatives of other organizations in a more organized and broad-based manner.	Dhobikhola is one of many rivers flowing through the Kathmandu valley and most rivers face the problem of industrial pollution. Therefore, the initiative is also set to serve as a model for possible replication in other similarly situated areas in Kathmandu.
While there have been few attempts made by various sectors including government, NGO and INGO, in addressing the problem of industrial pollution in Nepal, such one-off efforts have not been effective because of the absence of a collectively mobilized and collaborative efforts involving all concerned stakeholders in dealing with the problem.

Development of a digital map demarcating industries in the river area.
Inventory of Industries and their nature of pollutants.
Dhobikhola river water lab testing
Health samplings of locals.
Implementation of Cleaner Production approach.
Community awareness on Industrial Pollution and its health impacts.
Multi-stakeholder meetings and workshops.
Increase awareness on Industrial Effluent standard of Nepal, Environmental Act and regulations, set by Ministry of Population and Environment, Nepal, among concerned stakeholders
Building consensus among the Government bodies, locals and industries on adopting a scientific approach as to minimize the pollution impact through local awareness programs and interaction between all the concerned stakeholders

Development of a comprehensive, up-to-date inventory system comprising detailed information on overall industries and nature and types of chemical pollutants.
Further develop avenues of cooperation with the Ministry of Environment.

Dhobikhola is one of many rivers flowing through the Kathmandu valley and most rivers face the problem of industrial pollution. Therefore, the initiative is also set to serve as a model for possible replication in other similarly situated areas in Kathmandu.