On June 1st, 2025, the Bagmati River Waterkeeper and London Waterkeeper proudly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the Sister River Initiative, a collaborative effort aimed at protecting, restoring, and celebrating two culturally and ecologically significant rivers: the Bagmati River in Nepal and the River Thames in the UK.
The initiative encourages the exchange of knowledge on river conservation, science, and restoration, and will facilitate cultural celebrations and collaborative projects. It is inspired by a successful sister river partnership between the Karnali River Waterkeeper and Hudson Riverkeeper in New York.
This important partnership was launched on Sithi Nakha, the inauguration day of the Bagmati River Festival — an annual event organized by the Nepal River Conservation Trust (NRCT) to celebrate Nepal’s natural heritage and community spirit. The festival includes river clean-ups, rafting trips, cultural performances, exhibitions, and a heritage conservation march. These activities aim to deepen public connection to the river and encourage ongoing efforts to protect it.
The Sister River Initiative also aims to strengthen connections between Nepali organizations in the UK and the communities along the Bagmati River in Kathmandu, fostering collaboration among conservationists, scientists, and river guides from both countries.
About the Partners:
- Nepal River Conservation Trust (NRCT): Founded in 1995 by river guides, NRCT is the first NGO in Nepal focused on river conservation, working closely with the global Waterkeeper Alliance.
- London Waterkeeper: Protecting the River Thames, London Waterkeeper uses science and legal advocacy to combat pollution and improve water quality.
- Waterkeeper Alliance: Founded in 1989, this global network connects Waterkeeper groups around the world, coordinating efforts to ensure clean water for all.
Contact for More Information:
Mausam Khanal, Bagmati River Waterkeeper — mailtomausam@gmail.com / +977 9841266456
Theo Thomas, London Waterkeeper — theothomas@londonwaterkeeper.org.uk / 07421745619
