Background
The southwestern coastal regions of Bangladesh, particularly Satkhira, Khulna, and Bagerhat
districts, face severe challenges in water security and health due to climate change and
geographic isolation. Groundwater salinity and tidal breaches have severely contaminated
traditional water sources, forcing women and children to undertake arduous journeys—
sometimes 4–5 kilometers—to fetch drinking water. This exposes them to waterborne
diseases and intensifies the hardships of daily life. Historically, pond water has been a vital
source of drinking water for communities in these regions, as groundwater has always been
saline. However, over the past three decades, rising sea levels and increased salinity
intrusion have further degraded these water sources, leaving poor and vulnerable
populations in acute water scarcity. Additionally, sanitation facilities in the region remain
inadequate and fragile. During cyclones and storm surges, traditional toilet systems fail,
causing human waste to spread across flooded areas. This contaminates the surrounding
water, creating severe health hazards and fostering unsanitary living conditions for entire
communities. To address these critical issues, LEDARS is implementing integrated programs
aimed at alleviating water scarcity, reducing the burden on women, and improving
sanitation and health services. These efforts focus on innovative, sustainable solutions that
ensure resilience against climate-induced challenges, empowering communities to build a
healthier and more secure future.