JCI Dhaka Founders and JCI Dhaka Diplomats, in collaboration with Alokito Kori and Lightshore Network, have successfully launched the third phase of their initiative, "Community-Scale Water Security for the Munda Community in Coastal Bangladesh."
The initiative addresses the pressing water crisis faced by the Munda community through a multifaceted approach, according to a press release.
The third phase featured a training session, an uthan boithok, and the installation of a 3,000-liter rainwater harvesting tank to provide a sustainable solution to water scarcity.
The training, led by Sadhon Chandra, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at Khulna University, trained 24 participants in the maintenance of rainwater tanks, pond sand filters, and water purification techniques, reads the statement.
The Munda community has long struggled with water salinity, limited access to clean water, and the adverse effects of climate change. Many residents, like Jamuna Munda, have had to travel 2–3 kilometers daily to fetch drinking water.
“Our tube well is about 1.5 kilometers away from our house. Fetching water has been extremely challenging for me. Receiving this water tank has been a great relief,” said Jamuna.
Nahid Hasan, President of JCI Dhaka Founders, highlighted the long-term vision of the project: “Our commitment to water conservation is not just about today’s needs; it’s about building a foundation for tomorrow's sustainable solutions.”
Sadhon Chandra emphasized the importance of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) in addressing the water crisis, especially for women who depend on land and water for their livelihoods. “Adopting RWH with support from JCI Dhaka Founders & Diplomats could greatly help coastal women save time and money,” he noted.
Sultana Razia, Vice President of JCI Dhaka Founders, added, “Empowering communities with the resources to manage their own water is a crucial step toward fostering self-sufficiency and resilience in the face of climate change.”
Ranjita Munda echoed the challenges, saying, “Saline water is undrinkable, and the tube well is 1.5 kilometers away from our house. The new water tank has eased our daily struggles significantly.”
Earlier phases of the initiative included an awareness session held in Sharankhola, Khulna, in collaboration with the Lal Sabuj Society, which engaged 60 participants in discussions on the importance of water and sustainable management practices.
This initiative aims to foster sustainable water management practices by equipping the community with the knowledge and tools to maintain water systems effectively. By addressing both immediate and long-term challenges, the project is paving the way for a resilient future for the Munda community.