Sabita Biswas, a resident of Chila union in Mongla upazila, vividly recalls the days when fetching drinking water meant long journeys. However, a transformative initiative is reshaping lives in this coastal region, addressing the pressing issues of water scarcity and climate change.
In collaboration with the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Brac has introduced a game-changing Rainwater Harvesting System (RWHS) in Mongla upazila. Distinctive pink water tanks, with a capacity of 2,000 litres each, have been installed in 4,200 households, easing the burden of water scarcity.
An innovative facet of this initiative is the establishment of community-based water tanks, offering safe drinking water at an affordable rate of Tk1 per litre. SetuBondhon Samabay Samity, an enterprise managed entirely by women, leads this effort, providing a vital service to the local populace.
“We have 25 customers to whom we provide water at subsidized rates. Given the severe scarcity of safe drinking water in our area, this initiative is crucial,” emphasizes Shipra Halder, president of SetuBondhon Samabay Samity.
This program, titled “Enhancing Safe Drinking Water Security and Climate Resilience through Rainwater Harvesting,” not only transforms lives but also tackles the climate crisis head-on. Community engagement is a key focus, with 29 Water Management Committees (WMCs) ensuring sustainability and involvement.
Despite the progress, challenges persist. Climate-related health issues, such as hair fall and skin diseases, are reported by students like Nafisa Akter Raisa and Sabrina Tabassum Saba. However, the initiative receives praise for its positive impact on education and quality of life.
Nafisa Hossain, a 10th-grade student, expresses gratitude for Brac’s support, highlighting the vital role clean drinking water plays in improving their overall well-being. As Mongla grapples with climate change, this initiative stands as a beacon of hope, empowering communities and fostering resilience in the face of challenges.
