Bangladesh has made significant progress in water management, but coastal areas like Satkhira continue to struggle. The region faces prolonged waterlogging, dry spells, and increasing groundwater salinity due to shrimp farming. Long-term exposure to saline water can cause health issues such as hypertension and preeclampsia. Additionally, arsenic and microbial contamination further threaten safe drinking water access.
Progetto Uomo Rishilpi International Onlus was founded in 1977 to support marginalized communities in Satkhira. Over time, it expanded into water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) projects to address local water crises.
Established in 2010, the WTP initially served the Rishilpi campus. Since 2014, it has expanded its reach significantly. By 2024, 50,000 people benefit from its services, including 9,884 through community filters (CF) and 43,760 through jar water distribution. To promote sustainability, Rishilpi introduced a pricing model in 2016, ensuring affordability while maintaining operations.
Local financial contributions have declined due to rising costs, from 75% in 2022 to an expected 60% in 2024. Future projections suggest stabilization at 50%-55% between 2025 and 2027. The project continues to expand, with 15 new CFs planned and maintenance responsibilities being transitioned to local communities.
Since 2016, the WTP project has pursued sustainability by charging a minimal fee for jar water distribution. Revenue supports maintenance of CFs and bio-sand filters in 35 villages. By training community members for CF upkeep, 45 filters have already been handed over, with another 15 planned by 2027. Rishilpi will shift to monitoring and water quality testing, reducing costs and increasing self-sufficiency to 75% post-Phase V. Plans for small bottled water production from 2028 aim to achieve full sustainability.
Services Provided by Rishilpi
Installs purification systems for homes, offices, and hospitals at affordable prices. Through these initiatives, Rishilpi continues to ensure safe drinking water for Satkhira’s communities while working towards long-term sustainability.
