Bhutan Water Policy 2025

5.2 Water for Drinking and Sanitation .................. .......... ...................20

5.3 Water for Food Production ............................................................ 21

5.4 Water for Hydropower Development.. .... ................................ ...... 21

5.5 Water for Industrial Use ................................................................ 22

5.6 Water Use and Conflicting Users' Interests .............. .............. ...... .23 6. Principles of Water Resources Development and Management... ............ 24 6. J. Water Resources Development.. ................................................... 24

6.2. Water Resources Management .................................................... 25

6.3 Va lue of Water ............................................................................... 27

6.4 Water Resources Protection ........................................................... 28

6.5 F lood Control and Management .................................................... 29 7. Institutional Development for Water Resources Management: ............ ... 30

7.1. Institutional Set Up .......................................... ........ .......... ....... ... 30

7.2. Responsibility for the Management of the Water Resources ....... 32

7.3. Management of Information System ........................................... 32

7.4. Human Resources Development .................................................32

7.5. Applied Research in Water Resources Development and Management ................................................................................33 8. International Waters ...................................... ........................................... 35

8.1. Trans-boundary Water Resources .................... ................ ............. 35 ANNEXURE ............ .............................................................................................. 36 Terms of Reference of Bhutan Water Partnership........................... .................. 37 q~~zrr~q·qar~:~c:_· -2, o-2, u. -o~·~i BHUTAN WATER VISION 2025 ~·~Qf1t::: ~~·~~~~·t.r ~·a:r"~19q·~1·1ql).J·q(a.i~~·wq-~1 Supporting Life, Prosperity and Gross National Happiness Our Country and its Resources Major Rivers & LandUse Map Roel.. ou1crops.. Soo" Co, er. Open Eroded & Marsh~ Areas - - Rl\cr - Forest (Broad leaf. Comfcrous & Plan1:i1101\5} - Water Spreads f orestScm b Scu lcment ln1cmattonal B<>uudaf) N~•tural &. lmpro' cd P3sturc Source: Department of Energy, MoEA Bhutan Water Vision River Basins with North-South Tributaries and their Specific Runoff (l/s/km 2) Figure .$.2.-4 : No rth-SOltlh Triburaries. Obs e n ed A nnual S necific Run ofT (l/s/sg .k1n) U\ er com pf Ne catc hme nt area up~ lrt~um ___ _____. .. ... .. .._ "' -"·-··~- ... _._ ....,,,. ...--. ......... ( . . . . . _ 0 . . _ ~~..:' .-.:...... ,L Source: Departme nt of Ene rgy, MoEA Bhutan Water Vision .. II River Basins with East-West Tributaries and 2 their Specific Runoff (l/s/km ) Source: Department of Energy, MoEA iii Bhwa11 Water Vision 800 ~ 700 E ,.... c: ...._, 600 ~c: 500 "" 0::: >. 400 ..c: E 0 300 ~ 200 1'.lO 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec O Inner valle)'S a Middle mountains • Foothills Temporal and Spatial Distribution of Precipitation Bhutan Water Vision iv Did you know that ..... • Bhutan is endowed with rich water re ources. • It has four major river basins - Amo Chu , Wang Chu , Punatsang Chu and Drangme Chu basins. • The per capita availability of water per annum is more than 100,000 m 3 • More than 70% of the country i s covered by forests. • Protected areas cover more than one-fourth of the country's land area • Only 1.4 % of the country 's hydropower potential is harnessed. • Only 7.8 % of the country 's land area is arab le . • Bhutan 's annual population growth rate is 1.3%, meaning that Bhutan's pres- ent population will double in next fifty years. • About 79 % of Bhutan 's population is rural whi le 21 % live in towns and urban areas. • Bhutan' urban population is growing by 5-7 % per year. • It i estimated that the present urban popul ation of 130,000 will grow to more than 400,000 by 2020 • It is estimated that an average person in rural a reas uses 45 litres of water per day for domestic purposes whi le an urban res ident uses 130 litres per day. Bhutan Water Vision I The Changing Scenario Bhutan has abundant water resources, but this resource will face new, complex and pervasive challenges caused by population growth and socio-economic development. These challenges have to be faced. They must be effectively addressed through defined policies, acts, regulations, public education, stakeholder participation and well designed development programmes with efficient management institutions. Vision Water is the most important natural , economic and life-sustaining resource and we must ensure that it is available in abundance to meet the increasing demands. Present and future generations will have assured access to adequate, safe and affordable water to maintain and enhance the quality of their lives and the integrity of natural ecosystems. Strategies To achieve the Vision water must be used and managed sustainably, efficiently and equitably whi le preserving the environmental, social, cultural and economic value and us@s of water. To this end, all water users, planners and decision-makers shall be adequately informed, educated and encouraged to value and protect water in all its forms and uses. Realising our Vision requires the participation and involvement of all people in Bhutan working in a partnership mode within an enabling policy, legal and institutional environment. Bhutan Water Vision 2 Principles The Water Vision is based on the principles of environmental conservation, integrated water resources management, sustainable use of water resources, economic efficiency, equity and good governance. These principles are defined as: Environmental Conservation Implementing policies, acts and management plans which sustain and improve environmental integrity, ecosystems and all forms of life, including social, cultural and health aspects of human life. Integrated Water Resources Management Promoting coordinated development and management of water resources to maximise the economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of the vital ecosystems. Sustainable Use of Water Resources Developing water resources to meet the demand of its people without damaging the environment and the country's unique cultural heritage so that the quality of life of future generations is not compromised. Economic Efficiency Recognising that water has an economic value in all its competing uses, economic efficiency will be one of the criteria to prioriti se programs on water within the national and local interests. Bhutan Water Vision 3 Equity and Good Governance Equitable water use rights which respect local traditions that are founded on equity and social justice. Water administration shall be carried out by responsive, transparent and accountable institutions at the Central, Dzongkhag and Geog levels. Rights All people have the right to a livelihood. This right will be respected in all decisions regarding allocation , management and use of water resources. All people of Bhutan have the right to information and participation in decision-making through consultation and to appeal in matters relating to planning, allocation and use of water resources according to procedures specified in the Water Act and by the National Environment Commission or the Des ignated National Authority. Drivers of Change .. Demographic and Social Forces • Rural -urban migration • Population growth, particularly in urban areas • New lifestyles, attitudes and consumption patterns • New urban generations without roots in the land • Growth in unemployment • Urban and rural poverty Bhwan Water Vision 4 L Technology and Industry • Industrialisation • Labour-saving technologies to improve efficiency Growth of information and communications technology • Increase in demand for and access to information Environment and Health • Environmental and human impacts of development • Environmental/occupational diseases • Pollution of water resources Economic • Development and export of hydropower • Shift from rural to urban-based economy • Increasing demands for more water and higher service levels • Increased regional and international cooperation Political and Legal • Constitution • Bhutan Water Policy and other sector policies • Water Act • Government reorganisation and decentralisation Bhutan Water Vision 5 Challenges Bhutan faces many cha llenges in realising its Vis ion and achieving its development objectives and goals while at the same time managing conflicts and tackling the persistent forces of the drivers of change. Among the most important include: • Conserving the quantity and protecting the quality of water resources as a national asset Managing growing demands for water and energy at higher service levels Improving productivity and viabi lity of rural livelihood support base in the face of inaeasing urbanisation Achieving adequate institutional and human resources capacity • Anticipating, preventing and managing conflicts between competing uses and users of water resources Nurturing representative, responsive and transparent governance at all levels Priorities In Bhutan, clear priorities govern the plann ing, management and use of water resources. They are: • Water for human consumption, health and hygiene Water for agriculture Water fo r energy • Water for industry • Water for tourism and recreation Water for other uses Bhwan Water Vision 6 Water for nature conservation, inc luding prevention of natural disaster and emergencies shall always be a guiding element in all water allocation decisions Goals and Targets E nvironm ent Con ervation of watersheds, monitoring water quality, impact of urbani sati on, public awarene on water re ources issues Water supply and sanitation Rural I 00% coverage of safe water supply and sanitation Urban 100% coverage of safe water supply and sanitation Health Reducti on of water-related di seases Agriculture Increa cd agricultural productivity and production through improved water use effic iency Hydro power Tap its va t potential for soc io-economic development and elf reliance Industry Allocate adequate quantity of water and comply with pollution standards Bh11ra11 Water Vision 7 Recreation and Tourism Develop water bodies for recreation, fishing and tourism Aquaculture Identify and license water bodies/courses for fish farming Disaster Management Forecast and prevent disasters caused by water such as floods and landslides Instruments .... The condition and use of water resources in Bhutan is guided and regulated by a mutually reinforcing set of instruments consisting of: • Water Vision • Water Policy • Water Act • Environmental Assessment Act • Forest and Nature Conservation Act • Land Act • Supplementary legislation, codes, rules, regulations and bye-laws (national, sectoral and area-specific) • Local government acts and codes (e.g. Dzongkhag Tshogdu and Geog Tshogde chatrims, Municipal Act) • Voluntary agreements (e.g. genjas) Bhutan Water Vision 8 National Responsibility The responsibility for implementation and enforcement of the legal regime for water resources protection, management and use rests with the National Environment Commission or the Designated National Authority. These tasks are carried out at the lowest appropriate level in accordance with principles of integrated and decentralised management of water resources. Guardians of the Vision The following organisations assume a vital responsibility as guardians of Bhutan's Water Vision on behalf of the people of Bhutan: • Bhutan Water Partnership • Public Health Ez:igineering Section, MoH • Department of Urban Development and Housing, MoWHS • Bhutan Council of Agriculture Research and Extension, MoA • Department of Forest, Ministry of Agricu lture • Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture • Land Use Section, PPD, Ministry of Agriculture • Department of Energy, MoEA • Department of Tourism, MoEA • Department of Geology and Mines • Office of the Attorney General National Environment Commission or the Designated National Authority • Royal Society for the Protection of Nature Bhutan Water Vision 9 BHUTAN WATER POLICY 1. Introduction I. I Bhutan has been consistently following a conservation-centered development policy. This policy has been inherited from the wisdom of our forefathers who knew that ensuring the integrity of forests , rivers and soi l are vital to their surv ival in th e mountainous env ironment. Their wisdom , wh ich has been synthes ized into our modern development philosophy, has been crucia l in maintaining a good natural resource base. As the rnain outcome of this conservation policy, 72.5 % of the country is under forest. This good vegetative cover on a mountainous topography with a fair spat ial distribution of precipitation of 4000-5000 mm in the foothills , 700-2500 mm in the inner valleys and mid hills and 700- 1000 mm in the high a ltitude regions - has endowed the country w ith rich water resources. Fed by snow and rain, the country is drained by fou r major rivers and their numerous tributaries. Their average flow draining the country's area of 38,394 km2 is estimated at 2,325 m 3/ s (Water Resources Management Pl an, 2003), which is 73 ,000 million m 3/annum with per capita avai lability of more than I 00,000 m 3 . The mounta inous topography, with altitudes varying from I 00 meters to over 7 ,500 meters above sea leve l, drained by these rivers and their tributaries has g iven the country a high potential for hydropower development. I .2 However, Bhutan cannot afford to be complacent. The country is confronted w ith localized and seasonal water shortages for drinking and agricultural purposes. On ly 78% of the country 's popu lation has access to safe drinking water and Blz111an Water Policy II abo ut 12.5% of the arabl e land is irrigated. The hi gh per capi ta availabili ty of water at th e nati o na l level is in stark contrast to loca l water scarcity, w hich has beco me a serio us impediment to develo pme nt. This probl em of access to water is caused by the settl ements be ing o n the slopes w hil e the major rivers fl ow at the va lley botto ms. However, th e country's ann ua l prec ipitat io n gives so me prospect to deal w ith th e loca l wa ter scarc ity. Harvesting a small fraction of thi s huge qua ntity of rainwa ter has the potenti a l to so lve the local water scarcity problems a nd lead to judicio us use of availabl e wate r. I .3 There is increase in fluctuatio n between lean season and mo nsoon season fl ows leading to sub-optima l uti lizati o n of generating capacity of hydro power plants. The increasing sediment load in ri vers is decreas ing the expected o utput and economic life of hydropower plants. The un even distribution of prec ipitation over the fragile mountainous environment makes the country highly vulnerable to landslides, fl oods, droughts and impacts of c limate change .

1.4 Pressure o n water resources is mo un ting due to competing demands fro m diffe rent users. In the past, water was mainly used for do mestic and agricultura l p urposes. Even the demand for do mestic water is in creasing due to chang ing lifesty les caused by rapid soc io-economic development. S imila rl y, the water dem and by agriculture is ex pected to in crease due to producti o n intensifi cation to keep pace with food dem ands of a grow in g po pul ati o n. New demands fro m o th er sub-secto rs such as hydro power a nd - industries are emerging and mu st be accommodated. Rapid urbani satio n is taking place , which has serious im pacts both on water demand in terms of quantity required and the associated polluti o n that impairs quality. Bhutan Water Policy 12

1.5 Effective watershed management is imperative for water resources conservation and sustainable utilization. However, due to the rapid pace of socio-economic development, there is increased pressure on the watersheds . Although harvesting of forest produce is based on sustainable management plans, increasing demand for timber, firewood and non-timber forest produce is starting to have negative impacts on watersheds. Further, forestland encroachment and forest fires have become challenges for watershed conservation. Therefore, watershed management as the reservoir of water and other related resources is a challenge that must be addressed collectively in the interest of all resource users.

1.6 At a growth rate of 1.3% per annum, our population will double in the next fifty years. About half the population are projected to live in urban centres. Such a concentration of population poses a serious challenge to delivery of services and waste management of a burgeoning population. Given the limited arable and plain land, such concentration will undermine sustainable management of land and water resources, compromising the low carrying capacity of the fragile mountainous ecosystem. I. 7 Climate change has serious impacts on Bhutan. Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) are increasingly becoming threats due to melting of glaciers triggered by c limate change. GLOFs have serious impacts on life, properties and future infrastructure development in the country. Another major impact of climate change will be in reducing the natural flow regulating capacity of the glaciers for our rivers with serious consequences on our water resources. Therefore, Bhutan Water Policy 13 since Bhutan is affected by phenomenon on which we have no control, we must participate in international forums on c limate change to negotiate on mitigation measures for our important resources.

1.8 The existing water user institutions have weak functional linkages at policy, planning and programming levels. The different sub-sectors have been performing their respective responsibilities independent of each other. This has resulted in fragmented data, duplication of efforts and poor resource management system. It has sacrificed the synergy of integration. For instance, the drinking water program is looked after by two ministries: urban water supply is under Ministry of Works and Human Settlements and rural water supply is with the Ministry of Health. Similarly, while the Ministry ofAgriculture handles irrigation and land-use, hydropower development and hydro-meteorological data collection and GLOF are looked after by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Such an institutional set up has, above all, resulted to the absence of a national policy on water which is an important national resource and created sub-sector based institutions leaving rooms for potential conflicts among them.

1.9 There is no law on water in its own merit. However, some provisions related to water issues exist in some ex isting Acts such as the Land Act, 1979, Forest and Nature Conservation Act, 1995 , Environment Assessment Act, 2000, Bhutan Electricity Act, 2001 and Water and Sanitation Rules (framed in pursuance of the Municipal Act 1999). These provisions are not comprehensive and are sometimes contradictory, inconsistent and confl icting with each other. Besides, the people also practice customary law and norms , which differ from village to vi ll age. Therefore there is a need for the enactment of a comprehensive law on water. Bhutan Water Policy 14 I. I0 On the international front , Bhutan is signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, Kyoto Protocol to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change; Convention on Biological Diversity,; Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity; Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); Basel Convention on the control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal ; UNESCO World Heritage Convention ; International Plant Protection Convention; Statute of the Centre for Science and Technology of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and other Developing Countries; Statutes of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology. ,.. Bhutan Warer Policy 15 2. Water Vision for Bhutan Vision Statement Water is the most important natural, economic and life-sustaining resource and we must ensure that it is available in abundance to meet the increasing demands. Present and future generations will have assured access to adequate, saf e and affordable water to maintain and enhance the quality of their lives and the integrity of natural ecosystems.

2.1 Nature, water and human life are interdependent and inseparable and must coexist in hannony and balance.

2.2 To achieve this vision , water must be used and managed sustainably, efficiently and equitably while recogn izing and preserving the environmental, social , cultural and economic value and uses of water.

2.3 All water users, planners and decision-makers shall be adequately informed, \ educated and encouraged to value and protect water in all its forms and uses.

2.4 Realizing this vision requires the involvement of all people in Bhutan working in a continuous partnership within an enabling policy, legal and institutional framework. Bhutan Water Policy 16 3. Need for Water Policy 3. 1 Water is a precious natural resource, a basic human need for surviva l. The development and management of water resources must be therefore guided by national conservation and sustainab le development policies.

3.2 The Royal Government has taken the decision that sustainable agriculture development, harnessing hydropower potential and industrial development shal I be the main avenues of socio-economic development. Water is one of the main resources required in fulfilling this important national objective of socio- econom ic development. Therefore, the need for a water policy to guide the sector in the best interest of the nation cannot be over-emphasized.

3.3 Water is finite. Socio-economic development inevitably leads to increasing demand of water for diverse purposes: domestic, agricultural , hydropower, industrial, recreational etc. Water is a crucial element in all these development areas. Therefore, conservation, development, utilization and management of this important resource have to be guided by national goals.

3.4 The need for an integrated approach is crucial for effective management of water resources for fulfilling our diverse national objectives. An enabling environment shall be created for active participation of all stakeholders and for an integrated water resources management.

3.5 Floods including GLOF affect vast areas resulting in loss of lives and properties. H is essential to develop a national adaptation strategy for climate change, - including a national flood management and mitigation strategy. Bhutan Water Policy 17

3.6 A common framework for water resources assessment is crucial for informed decision-making. The inventory of water resources both in terms of quality and quantity needs to be developed.

3.7 There is a need for coordinated efforts on all water resources development in the country. It is also pertinent that an institution be created to ensure an integrated approach in the management of water resources and its sustainable utilization. 4. Policy Statements 4 .1 The Bhutan Water Policy is a reflection of the Royal government's commitment on the conservation, development and management of the country's water resources. It recognizes that water is a precious natural resource and a heritage important to all aspects of social, economic and environmental wellbeing. Therefore, water resources must be carefully conserved and managed in order to promote national development without compromising the integrity of the natural ecosystem.

4.2 The policy adopts an integrated approach, which recognizes natural linkages. Emphasis is placed on water resources management within river basins and aquifers, including both upstream and downstream water users. Surface and ground water must be seen as two forms of the same resource, often with close linkages. Water quality and quantity are important and interlinked. Water resources must be planned and managed in a coordinated manner.

4.3 Water is crucial for development since it is the resource that guarantees basic wellbeing for all. Water programs must address balanced development and grant equitable access to this basic resource to meet the basic condition for happiness thereby contributing to the national goal of Gross National Happiness (GNH) Bhutan Water Policy 18

4.4 Water support human sustenance and therefore has direct linkage to poverty. Recognizing this strong linkage, water related programs shall address poverty and offer people their right to respectable livelihoods.

4.5 The policy shall cover all forms of water resources including snow, glacier, rivers, lakes, streams, springs, wetlands, rainwater, soil moisture and groundwater.

4.6 The Water Policy views water resources from a broad, multi-sectoral perspective while recognising the responsibility of the sub-sectors to play their part in meeting the policy objectives. The policy principles are thematically grouped as follows: i) Water user interests and priorities; ii) Principles for water resource development and management; iii) Institutional development for water resources management; and iv) International waters. Bh111a11 Water Policy 19 5. Water User Interests and Priorities

5.1. Allocation of Water

5.1.1 When water resources are not sufficient either in quantity or quality to meet every legitimate demand, water for drinking and sanitation for human survival shall be the primary priority. Water for irrigation, hydropower generation, industrial use, recreation, and other uses shall be considered based on national and local priorities. Water legislation and management practices should allow for flexibility for adopting practical local solutions.

5.1.2 Water is indi spensable for nature conservation and this shall be a guiding element in water allocation decisions.

5.2 Water for Drinking and Sanitation

5.2.1 Water is essential for human survival and health. Therefore every individual has the right to safe, affordable and sufficient quantity of water for personal consumption and sanitation.

5.2.2 The goal of the Royal Government shall be to provide universal access to safe drinking water and sanitation. While doing so, national standards for water quality shall be developed and followed. 5 .2.3 There are reports of drying up of streams and springs as sources for drinking water. Consistent efforts shall be made to protect and conserve drinking water sources and the best available water sources shall be allocated for drinking purposes. In addition, alternative sources like groundwater and rainwater harvesting shall be explored in areas with water shortage. Bhutan Water Policy 20

5.3 Water for Food Production

5.3.1 Sustainable agriculture development is an important component of socio- economic development. It is the source of livel ihood for 79% of the population. Adequate water allocation to this sector is indispensable for achieving overall national food security. Therefore, water al location to the sector must be compatible with this national objective. A certain provision of water for consumption by domestic animals has to be made.

5.3.2 Agriculture consumes the highest percentage of water. With popu lation growth and increasing competition for water from other sub-sectors, it is imperative that higher efficiency ("more crop per drop") has to be achieved through adaptive and app lied research . In order to address seasonal and local water shortages, other sources of water like groundwater and rainwater harvesting shall be promoted wherever feas ible.

5.3.3 As agriculture production has the potential to pollute water resources through use of fertilizers and pesticides, efforts wil l be made to manage soil and pests w ithout using excessive chemicals to avoid poll ution of water resources from non-point agricu lture sources.

5.3.4 The role of the rivers as an aquatic habitat and as a source of food shall be recognised.

5.4 Water for Hydropower Development

5.4.1 The mountai nous topography of the country, with vary ing altitudes and swift flowing rivers in deep valleys carrying sufficient run-offs originating in fairly un-disturbed watersheds, provides the advantage for hydropower development. Bhwa11 Water Policy 21

5.4.2 Hydropower shall continue to be the backbone of the Bhutanese economy providing adequate energy for growth.

5.4.3 Hydropower development as a non-consumptive use of water, its significance as a renewable, non-polluting and clean form of energy and its potential for earning revenues from export shall be recognized. The sub-sector's tremendou potential for socio-economic development of the Kingdom sha ll be harnessed in a ustainable man ner.

5.4.4 Hydropower development and transmission of energy have linkages with upstream, downstream and en-route water and land-users and therefore there is a need for cooperation and coordination in work ing out tradeoffs. Th ese shall be approached through consultation and all users shall consider tradeoff, keeping in view the overall national interest.

5.5 Water for Industrial Use

5.5.1 The need for water by industries shall be recogn ized. Its rational and efficient use with proper disposal of wastewater is mandatory. The prospect of mountain spri ng wa ter as an environmentally clean product shall be encouraged. 5.5 .2 Development of tourism and recreational potential on Bhutan 's watercourses will create add itiona l opportunities and sha ll be promoted in a sustainable and environment-friendly manner. The potential of hot spri ngs, which have medicina l, cultural as well as recreationa l value, shall be promoted. Bhutan Water Policy 22

5.6 Water Use and Conflicting Users' Interests

5.6.1 Competing water uses which resu lt in confl icting water users' interests shall be solved thro ugh lega l instruments. Legis latio n re lated to water that exist in various Acts are not comprehensive, and does not address the current and future water issues sufficiently. There is therefore a pressing need to enact a comprehensive legislation on water, whi ch sha ll regulate water use in a sustainable way, resolve water-related confl icts, and ensure necessary conservation of water resources. The Water Act shall recogn ize and respect customary rights that are based o n justice, equity and good faith.

5.6.2 Water in Bhutan shall be a common good. T he State shall have the right to regulate the use of water resources and intervene in cases of confli cts. However, water management shall be broad-based w ith the involvement of al l stakeho lders throug h a consul tative process. The use of water shall be open to a ll legitimate users under the provisions of the Water Act.

5.6.3 A comprehensive water legislation and regulations along with elaborate water abstraction procedures sha ll be developed. Licensing of activities that abstract water for commercial use sha ll be made mandatory. T he licence shall specify the quanti ty, time frame, and q uali ty of abstractions and discharge of effl uents. The legislation shal1 also Jay down provisions for a systematic registrati on of a ll forms of water uses, for the purposes of nationa l integrated management plan and other uses.

5.6.4 T he Water Act shall take into account international legal norms and conventions that Bhutan is sig natory to. Bhutan Water Policy 23 6. Principles of Water Resources Development and Management

6.1. Water Resources Development Water resources development, management and conservation must be done in an integrated manner for long-term sustainability. Sustained.flow ofgood quality water depends on the integrity of the watershed. Water is a crossculling resource because of its universal utility. i t is a social and an economic good which transcends all social barriers. These characteristics o.f water shall form the basis to integrate our efforts in waler resources development, management and conservation. 6. 1.1 Sustainabi lity of water resources means to integrate conservation, devel opment and management on scientific basis, to maintain the safe yield of surface water sources, to prevent water pollution, to reduce the risks of flood and landslide damage and to promote the active participation of all stakeholders. Sustainable techn ical systems shall invo lve investigatio ns, sound and affordable designs followed by constructio n of hi gh qua lity infrastructure and their effecti ve maintenance. 6. 1.2 T he use of appropriate techno logies backed up by good management practices shall be promoted for savin g water in househo lds, agriculture and industrial uses. 6. 1.3 Water resources development shall be carried out in an environmentally sustainable, econo mically feas ible and socially acceptable manner. 6. 1.4. Water resources development shall be based o n applied research results and deve lopment activities relevant for Bhutan. These sha ll include programs and acti vities o n source protectio n, groundwater a bstracti on, rainwater harvesti ng, recycling and reuse and innovative management practices. Integrated and coordinated development of surface and groundwater and their conj unctive use shall be promoted in feasible areas. Bhura11 Water Policy 24 6.1 .5. Water resources conservation, development and management programs are capital-intensive. A prudent fiscal policy to develop the sector shall be important for its growth. Investment from the private sector shall be encouraged. Preference shall be given to cost-effective, multi-purpose and multi-users projects.

6.2. Water Resources Management 6.2. l Water resources management shall respect the integrity of rivers, surface and groundwater. As land-use has direct impact on water cycle, it is crucial that land-use planning take place at the river basin level. The upstream-downstream relationship has impact on the management of water resources. Therefore, water resource management in Bhutan shall be based on natural river basins. Conflicting user interests shall be resolved in a ri ver basin context as a norm .

6.2.2 The main river basins shall form natural units of a national water management system. Appropriate institutional structures for water resources management at the bas in level shall be developed.

6.2.3 Consistent water demand management shall complement the optimal development of water supply. Demand management shall include water-saving technologies, regulatory measures and enhancing public awareness. Pricing policies are ..... effective tool s for managing water demand, and this shall be an integral part of the water policy.

6.2.4 Water resources management shall be carried out in an integrated manner. Many water management problems, leading to crises of quantity and quality are associated with lack of integration, top-down management and disregard of upstream-downstream relationship. The important elements of an integrated water management shall include: Bhutan Water Policy 25 • Water flow circulation within the river basin , between the basins and the surroundings shall always be taken into consideration; • Land-use planning shall take place within the framework of the river basin; • lt shal I recognize the transport of matter, including polluting substances, that occurs between soil , air and water; • rt shall recognize that usable water is always a function of both quality and quantity, and the two are strongly inter-connected; • Water supply and wastewater management shall be integrated at all administrative levels; • Rivers, lakes and other wetlands shall be sustained as biotopes for aquatic life; • All legitimate water users shall be equally respected, and have a voice in decision- making; • Central and local water management shall be consistent and interlinked; • Integrated water management shall include monitoring, data collection, analysis and access; and • Integrated water resources management shall also include management measures related to monitoring, early warning and mitigation of floods, landslides, damage to agricultural land and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods.

6.2.5 Participation of both genders in water resources management decisions shall be encouraged. Therefore, water related programs shall take into consideration the important role of women and men with respect to equal sharing of burden and benefits. Both men and women shall be involved in planning, development and management of water resources programs. A concerted effort to sensitize the importance of gender equity in water resources programs shall be implemented. Bhutan Water Policy 26

6.3 Value of Water

6.3.1 Water has an economic and a social value. Demand management techniques shall be introduced in order to achieve equitab le sharing w hen there are competing water users. Economic instruments are efficient in modifying demand, and this shall be applied w ith care. Sustainable management of water as a resource is o nly possible when its full cost is acknowledged during planning and development of water proj ects. Cost recovery schemes shall include economic and environmental costs. Tariff structures shall therefore aim at sustainab ili ty of providing water.

6.3.2 Econo mic tools for water demand management wi ll be introduced. Roya lti es or o ther means ofrent/levy on water shall be considered for commercial water uses. Economic tools for promoting preferred o r environmentally beneficial practices shal1 be promoted.

6.3.3 Use of water resources that causes pollution shall be regulated. The cost of If pollution mi tigation shall be based o n the "polluter pays princi ple."

6.3.4 The principle of cost sharing o n water resource deve lopment and management shall be further strengthened to inculcate a sense of participation and ownership for sustaina bility. Bhutan Water Policy 27

6.4 Water Resources Protection 6.4. 1 All forms of water resources shall be protected. Pollution impairs water quality, and hence reduces the water resource base. Pollution of water resources from urban development, agriculture, construction industry shall be controlled and the policy shall promote use of clean and appropriate technology. Watersheds ' essential role as a sustainable source of water shall be protected.

6.4.2 Watersheds play an important role in regulating and maintaining water flow. The Royal Government of Bhutan shall ensure that adequate funds and resources are ploughed back for watershed protection and management. The plough back mechanism shall be used as an important tool for water resources management and development. 6.4.3 [t is particularly important to protect the watershed providing drinking water. Surface water sources that are used for water suppl y shall be protected. The quality of groundwater shall be monitored in view of the potential future role of groundwater as a source of water, and co-ordinated with the general surface water quality monitoring.

6.4.4 Water quality wi ll be maintained by creating awareness on water pollution Environmental impact assessments shall give special considerations to impacts on water and aquatic life. Introduction of clean technologies for industrial production sha ll be promoted. Bh11ta11 Water Policy 28

6.5 Flood Control and Management

6.5.1 In tegrated and coordinated approach in flood control and man agement is essential. Action plan s and programm es s hall be developed fo r monitoring, early warn ing of flood ha zards an d di sas ter managem ent. Parti cu lar atte nti o n shall be gi ven to threats from flood s, includin g glac ia l lake o utburst fl oods.

6.5.2 Di saster management plan including forecasting, prevention, evacuation and miti gatin g meas ures shall be developed fo r flood-prone basins. Sound watershed management through extensive so il conservati on, waters hed area treatment, conservation of forests sha ll be promoted to reduce the inc idence and intens ity of flood s. Flood forecasting and warning system shall be establi shed along with reg ulatio ns for human settlements and construction of physical fl ood protecti o n works to minimize loss of life and properties due to fl oods.

6.5.3 In frastructure for flood protection and damage prevention shall be strengthened. Flood zoning shall be carried o ut as an important di saster prevention measure. Measures to reduce threats from g lacial lake outburst fl oods shall be taken up.

6.5.4 Unma naged wa te r has great potential for destruction and pose huge ri sks to assets, Iives, economy and the environment. It is important to know the destructive capacity of water and take appropriate safety and management measures whi le dealing wi th water and related activ ities. Thi s is the respons ibility of every indi v idua l and organization that use and deal wi th water at indi v idual o r collecti ve levels. Bhutan Water Policy 29 7. Institutional Development for Water Resources Management:

7.1. Institutional Set Up

7.1.1 The National Environment Commission or the Designated National Authority shall ensure effective co-ordination of water resources management at the national level. It shall be assisted by the Bhutan Water Partnership (BhWP) comprising of representatives from stakeholders, Civi l Society and other NGOs. The mandate of NEC or the Designated National Authority shall include: • Planning of water resources at national level, • Formulation of water policy and required legislation, • Preparation of Integrated Water Resources Management Plans, • Monitoring and eva luati on, • Setting water quality standards and guidelines, • International water co-operation, • Licensing and regulating activities, • Report to the Government/ National Assembly Further, in collaboration with relevant sectors, the NEC or the Designated National Authority shall coordinate: • Research , development planning and support • Capacity bui lding and technical backstopping, • Coordination of emergency preparedness, Bh111a11 Water Policy 30 • Data collection and dissemination, • Flood and disaster management related to water resources

7.1.2 The line ministries, departments, divisions and other organisations shall implement their respective functional responsibilities within the policy and legal framework. For ensuring effectiveness of the institutions in the water sector, better coordination and linkage mechanisms among them shall be promoted.

7.1.3 The Royal Government may form advisory bodies, from time to time, consisting of representatives from civil society and water users organizations, to provide advice to the government on water-related issues.

7.1.4 Operational management of water resources shall be carried out at the regional and local level with active participation of stakeholders. The practical management of water resources shall be implemented at appropriate levels. The line agencies shall ensure their linkage with local organisations to ensure effective implementation of activities on water with active participation of the beneficiaries. In line with the decentralisation policy, the Dzongkhag Tshogdu and Geog Tshogde at the Dzongkhag and geog levels respectively shall play important roles in planning, implementation, operation and management of all water programs. The role of private sector and non-governmental organisations shall be encouraged in supplementing the services on water provided by the public sector. Private sector participation shall be guided by public authorities, which shall set the requirements for minimum service standards. Bhutan Water Policy 31

7.2 Responsibility for the Management of the Water Resources 7 .2.1 The State shall act as the trustee of water resources and shall be responsible for overall regulation and management. Since water is a valuable resource that should be protected in the public interest, the State has an obligation to ensure a just, equitable and sustainable allocation among all legitimate water users including rationing during scarcity. -

7.3 Management of Information System

7.3.1 A prime requisite for efficient water resource conservation , development, management and planning is a well-developed information management system. A standardi zed national information management system with network of data banks and databases shall be established. The establishment's main function will be designing information collection network and data collection with integration and strengthening of the existing central and dzongkhag level agencies. It shall work towards improving the quality of data and its processing. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) shall be adopted as an effective tool for this purpose. It shall faci litate free exchange of data among the various partner organizations for dissemination of information.

7.4. Human Resources Development 7.4. l For efficient management and development of water resources, sufficient human resources, their skills and knowledge are important prerequisites. Therefore a prospective plan for training of planners, managers, implementers and the users Bh111a11 Water Policy 32 shall form an integral part of the institutional capacity building measures. In this regard, priority trainings shall be imparted on information systems, cross- sectoral and integrated planning, multi-purpose project planning and formulation, project management, conservation, watershed hydrology, operations and maintenance of physical infrastructures related to water resources management and development.

7.4.2 Awareness campaigns and sensitizing all users on the importance of water are important aspects that need special attention. In this regard, there is need for training of sociologists and institutional experts to encourage efficient management and development of water resources.

7.4.3 Efforts shou ld also be made to highlight the importance of water resources in the curriculum of all relevant educational institutions.

7.5. Applied Research in Water Resources Development and Management 7 .5.1. For effective and economic management of resources and also to keep with the dynamics of change and development, constant efforts shall be made in applied research on water conservation, management and development.

7.5.2. The fol lowing areas need special attention: i) Hydrometeorology ii) Assessment of the National Water Resources iii) Surface water source and watershed protection Bhutan Water Policy 33 iv) Ground water hydrology and recharge v) Water harvesting vi) Water balance studies vii) Crop water requirements and cropping systems viii) Soil erosion and bio-engineering ix) Flood control and mitigation x) Erosion of the watercourse and sedimentation of reservoirs xi) Safety of hydraulic structures xii) Recycling and re-use xiii) Best practices xiv) Economic and financial planning xv) Wastewater xvi) Water pollution and prevention xvii) Water Law and Administration Bhutan Water Policy 34 8. International Waters

8.1. Trans-boundary Water Resources

8.1.1 Trans-boundary water issues shall be dealt in accordance with International laws and Conventions to which Bhutan is a signatory.

8.1.2 Cooperation in information sharing and exchange, appropriate technology in water resources development and management, flood warning and disaster management shall be initiated at the national , regional and global levels. Bhutan Water Policy 35 ~·~, ANNEXURE Terms of Reference of Bhutan Water Partnership The Royal Government established, in August 200 I, a multi-stakeholder body called Bhutan Water Partnership (BhWP), comprising of relevant agencies in the water resources sector. The Terms of Reference of the Bh WP are: • To act as a technical advisory body to the government/NEC or the Designated NationalAuthority o n water resources protection, development and management; • To promote and support integrated water resources management as an approach to sustainable water resources management; • Provide guidance to the government in identifying critical needs for the sustainable management of water resources as well as possible ways of meeting them; • Assist in the formulation and promotion of national policies in the area of water resources; • Promote research and development (R&D) in the water sector); • Exchange ideas, critical knowledge and information on how to work together to achieve sustainable management of water resources and disseminate information and facilitate sharing of experiences among users, policy makers and planners for development of water resources ; • Promote increased use of integrated planning approach; • Establish Iinkage and collaboration with government agencies, international agencies, loca l govt. institutions, private organ izations and NGOs and other civil society groups like media and various professional groups; • Conduct advocacy and awareness programs on water related issues; A1111exure 37 • Promote and organize training in the relevant fields; • Participate in all network meetings, whether at country, regional or global level; • Have network meetings regularly to review critical regional network activities and the work program taking into account the developments at all levels of the network; • Have partnership meetings regularly to review and coordinate activities of the partnership; • Co-ordinate relevant activities of BhWP with those of other concerned organizations; • To act as a focal body to the South Asian Network of the Global Water Partnership; • Work closely with the GWP with regard to meeting specific water related objectives; • Encourage achievement of Millenium Development Goals and the declaration of the World Summit on Sustainable Development related to water; • Review the partnership functions from time to time in line with the strategies developed by the GWP network; • Strengthen the partnership through increased interaction with key stakeho lders; • The members of the BhWP will be from relevant stakeholder agencies and shall be open to both institutions and individuals. The members shall be invited through notification in the media. Annexure 38 -