KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) has directed that arrangements be made to stop the use of plastic water bottles at the official prime ministerial residence in Baluwatar.

According to sources, relevant agencies have been instructed to manage taps and pipelines so that Melamchi drinking water can be consumed directly.

Following the directive, officials have coordinated with drinking water authorities to move forward with water quality testing, pipeline inspections, and tap management.

It is reported that a technical team recently inspected the Prime Minister’s residence premises in Baluwatar.

The preparation to end the use of bottled water at the official residence is being viewed in connection with cost control, environmental protection, and health benefits.

In particular, attention has shifted to alternative arrangements after various studies raised concerns about the potential presence of microplastics in water supplied in plastic bottles.

According to drinking water officials, this step is expected to send a message that the Prime Minister consumes the same public drinking water used by the general public.

Additionally, it is said to be aimed at increasing citizens’ trust in the public water supply.

According to the relevant authorities, regular quality testing of water distributed by the Melamchi Water Supply Project is being conducted.

It is claimed that the water reaching the main storage tanks meets the required standards and is of a direct-drinking grade if proper distribution management is ensured.

Earlier, the use of bottled water was also gradually reduced during meetings and gatherings at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar.

It is reported that preparations are now underway to institutionalize this practice in Baluwatar as well.