Four sources of water have dried up in Majhuwagadhi of Khotang district after a dozen illegally operated stone mines used rock breakers nearby to extract natural resources such as boulders.

As the sources in Jukepani, Kandedhara, Gairi Muhan and Odare Muhan dried up completely, people are facing difficulties in finding potable water.

There are 23 families reeling under a water shortage in the Kande and Dandachhap areas. Locals said they have to carry water from the Dhodekhola area, which is a one-hour walk from the villages. Seven families in Kande have already shifted to other locations as a result.

Villagers said they have requested the District Administration Office to close the illegal mines, to no avail. “The local administration did not care to stop the illegal extraction as mine owners are working in collusion with the officials,” Netra Katwal, a local, complained.

Villagers said Bhagawati temple, Budheshwor Cave, Siddheshwor Cave and Trimukteshwor temple of Majhuwagadhi face a risk of landslides due to the mining. Anil Kirati, chief executive officer of the Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality, admitted that people have requested the office to close the mines.