23rd March 2025, Kathmandu
On the occasion of World Water Day, Siddhartha Bank successfully organized a walkathon titled “Walk for Water, Walk for Life” to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation and sustainable water management.
Nepal Glacier Conservation
This marks the first time the bank has hosted such an event, aligning with its commitment to sustainable development goals (SDGs) and responsible banking practices.
The 5-kilometer walkathon commenced from Naxal Narayanchaur, passing through Hattisar, Putalisadak, Bagbazar, Ratnapark, Jamal, Darbarmarg, and Gairidhara, before concluding back at Naxal. The event saw the participation of 656 individuals, including 395 men and 261 women, comprising bank employees, stakeholders, environmentalists, and students.
Siddhartha Bank has been actively integrating environmental and social considerations into its banking operations, emphasizing green financing, digital banking, and corporate social responsibility. The bank has implemented various policies and programs to ensure sustainability in financial services, with a focus on renewable energy, eco-friendly investments, and responsible banking practices.
Focus on Glacier Conservation
This year’s World Water Day theme, “Glacier Conservation,” highlights the critical role of glaciers in maintaining the Earth’s ecological balance. Glaciers are vital sources of water for drinking, agriculture, industry, energy production, and maintaining biodiversity. However, rising global temperatures have accelerated glacier melting, posing a severe threat to natural water cycles and ecosystems.
Speaking at the inauguration of the event, Siddhartha Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Sundar Prasad Kadel, emphasized the urgency of glacier conservation. “In countries like Nepal, the rapid melting of glaciers is a serious environmental crisis. This issue must be addressed not only at the national level but also as part of an international campaign,” he stated. Kadel warned that the disruption of natural water cycles due to glacier melting could lead to severe water scarcity and ecological imbalances in the future.
A Call for Collective Action
The walkathon aimed to spread the message, “Save Water, Secure the Future,” urging individuals and communities to take proactive steps in water conservation. The bank highlighted the importance of sustainable water management and the need to protect water resources for future generations.
Since 1993, the United Nations has observed March 22 as World Water Day to promote awareness about the global water crisis and advocate for sustainable water management. Siddhartha Bank’s initiative aligns with the UN’s SDG 6, which aims to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all.
Through this event, Siddhartha Bank reinforced its dedication to environmental sustainability and responsible banking, encouraging collective efforts to address the pressing challenges of water conservation and climate change. The bank remains committed to contributing to sustainable economic growth while fostering environmental and social well-being.
For more: Nepal Glacier Conservation