The Stream, December 30: Kathmandu’s Ancient Water Spouts Go Dry

The Global Rundown

Montana’s prospects for winning a water rights lawsuit with Wyoming don’t look promising, nor do Kathmandu’s ancient water network’s prospects for survival. Islamabad’s water supply does not even meet two thirds of demand, and New Jersey’s water utilities may soon be up for sale. Panasonic has created a new high-speed, light-driven water purification technology.

“We don’t have the luxury of buying water for everyday use … I don’t know what I will do if this stone spout dries up.” – Namita Maharjan, Kathmandu resident and mother of three, on the threat of construction and groundwater depletion to the city’s ancient water spouts. (Gulf Times)

By The Numbers

10,000 acre-feet Amount of water Montana claims it has been shorted by Wyoming in the past decade.  A special master presiding over a water rights lawsuit between the two states has recommended that most of Montana’s claims be denied. Flathead Beacon

60 million gallons per day Water deficit facing the city of Islamabad, Pakistan. The Islamabad Citizens Committee has expressed their deep concern over the issue, and recently recommended augmentation of supply from the Indus River. Daily Times

Science, Studies, And Reports

Panasonic has developed a new water treatment method that is driven by light and performs at high speeds. The so-called “photocatalytic water purification technology” uses photocatalysis and UV rays to clean water. TradeArabia News Service

On The Radar

A bill to allow water privatization without a public vote has passed through the New Jersey legislature. The bill, which is currently awaiting Governor Chris Christie’s signature, would allow municipalities to sell water utilities to private corporations without voter approval. Al Jazeera America

 A network of ancient water spouts in Nepal’s capital city is under threat via swift and chaotic development. The spouts, which are essential to many residents of Kathmandu, are increasingly being put out of commission by construction that blocks underground water channels or new wells that are depleting the groundwater table. Gulf Times