Baspani under construction

Baspani was a project conducted by Rotary Clubs of Portland, Dorchester Casterbridge and Poundbury in conjunction with teh Okhle Village Trust to build a water tank and seven taps at the village of Baspani in central Nepal

Project description

The project was to construct a water storage and distribution system in the village of Baspani in a rural area of Nepal. Up to now the villagers only had water during the wet season (May to July) and had to walk to a neighbouring village to collect water outside this period. The storage tank and distribution taps give them access to water in the village, which will improve their health and enable them to use their time and energy more productively. The project works were overseen by Bimal Gurung who has been involved in recent Rotary projects in the area.

Rotarian involvement

Rotarians from Portland Casterbridge and Poundbury club visited the area at their own expense in November 2015, to inspect the site and discuss the plan for the project with the villagers, prior to work commencing in January 2016.

Non-Rotarian involvement

The project was conducted in collaboration with the Okhle Village Trust which is based in Dorset and has experience of similar water projects. By working with the Okhle Village Trust the Rotary clubs can benefit from this experience and from the local knowledge and expertise of its contact in Nepal, Bimal Gurung.

Sustainability

The water systems are owned communally by the village. The villagers were involved in the construction so are well placed to undertake ongoing maintenance tasks. Running costs will be very low as the system will be gravity fed from springs.

Publicity

A plaque was placed on the site recording the Rotary contribution. Details of the project were publicised locally in Dorset through interviews on local radio and articles in newspapers.

TOTAL PROJECT COST                                                                                      £5500