Climate change-induced floods, droughts, and cyclones in Bangladesh's coastal areas have severely impacted the livelihoods of poor communities, exacerbating the safe drinking water crisis. Decline in freshwater sources due to extreme weather events and intrusion of saline water worsen the situation. The lack of access to safe drinking water increases the vulnerability of marginalized populations, leading to physical illness due to inadequate knowledge of hygiene practices. The proposed working area suffers from extensive economic damage and lacks sustainable solutions for safe water access. Through implementing the proposed project, LEDARS will work to transform the community in the climate change-affected coastal area of Bangladesh where the affected households will easy access to safe drinking water. Besides they will be able to improve their understanding and knowledge regarding the importance of drinking safe drinking water, sanitation and personal hygiene. Above all, the hardship of the targeted vulnerable people will be reduced. This proposed project focuses on mitigating the most sustainability challenges of the southwest coastal area i.e. drinking water crisis. The proposed project will be scaling up in a wider context in nearby areas where vulnerable poor people are suffering from the similar vulnerabilities. LEDARS will emphasize working in cooperation with the community, public representatives, and local government for better sustainability of the project outcomes.
Create access to safe drinking water for the most vulnerable coastal community.
1) Improved access to safe drinking water for marginalized communities.
2) Enhanced understanding and knowledge among community members regarding the
importance of safe drinking water, sanitation, and personal hygiene practices.
3) Enhanced resilience of women and adolescent girls to manage water technology and
mitigate climate change hazards effectively.
1) People Organization Formation and Capacity Development:
To promote climate adaptation and strengthen resource user groups for community-led
adaptation, LEDARS mobilized Community peoples in Batiaghta Upazila in Khulna District of
Bangladesh. Through this initiative, Climate Resilient Groups (CRGs) have been formed at
the village and cluster levels.
2) Provision of Safe Drinking Water Solutions:
The project ensures access to safe drinking water through the distribution of Bio Sand Filters
(BSF) to the vulnerable families and the installation of Household Rainwater Harvesting Systems
for 20 families. Additionally, inactive Pond Sand Filters (PSF) are reactivated, and one pond is
re-excavated and upgraded with a modern PSF. The methodology includes community-based
selection of beneficiaries, training on filter maintenance, and regular follow-ups to ensure
sustained use.
3) WASH Education and Awareness Campaigns:
WASH education sessions are conducted among beneficiaries to improve hygiene practices and
sanitation awareness. The sessions utilize participatory learning methods, including community
discussions, demonstrations, and educational materials to reinforce key messages on water
safety, hygiene, and sanitation.
4) Health Kit Distribution for Improved Hygiene:
To enhance health and hygiene, 1,000 families received health kits containing essential hygiene
materials. The methodology includes needs assessment, procurement, and equitable
distribution, followed by awareness sessions on proper usage.
5) Capacity Building and Community Engagement:
The project strengthens community participation by organizing an inception workshop with
stakeholders, forming Climate Resilient Groups (CRGs), and conducting capacity-building
training for staff. These activities ensure active community involvement and enhance local
capacity in managing water and sanitation resources effectively.
6) Water Source Management and Sustainability:
Orientation sessions on water source management equip community members with the
knowledge and skills to maintain and protect water sources. Practical demonstrations and
expert-led discussions emphasize sustainable practices and long-term management strategies.
7) Project Learning and Knowledge Sharing:
A project learning and sharing workshop will be organized to engage stakeholders, review
project outcomes, and document best practices. This methodology fosters continuous learning
and facilitates the replication of successful interventions in other vulnerable areas.
LEDARS (Local Environment Development and Agricultural Research Society) is a non-profit and non-political development organization. LEDARS has been working since 1996 in Bangladesh. Details…
