Introduction: In the wake of the devastating 2022 flood in District Dera Ismail Khan, which left communities struggling with damaged infrastructure and scarce resources, Health Education and Development Society (HEADS) and International Rescue Committee (IRC), through Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) project, stepped in to provide crucial assistance. IRC and HEADS collaborative efforts focused on addressing the urgent needs of flood-affected areas, including Haji Mora village, under the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) component. Recognizing the dire need for clean drinking water, the rehabilitation of the water supply scheme in Haji Mora village became a pivotal intervention, aiming to restore access to safe and regular drinking water for its inhabitants.
Background: After the devastating flood of 2022, Haji Mora village, located in union council Zandani, Tehsil, and District Dera Ismail Khan, suffered extensive destruction and a breakdown in essential services. The aftermath of this disaster left the village facing a critical shortage of clean and dependable drinking water. Consequently, residents experienced heightened health concerns, including kidney pain and a heightened risk of contracting various waterborne diseases such as diarrhea and gastroenteritis. Children and the elderly, being more vulnerable, were disproportionately affected by these illnesses. The absence of proper sanitation facilities and the scarcity of safe water sources further compounded the community’s health challenges.
Implementation: Following a meticulous assessment, HEADS and IRC pinpointed the rehabilitation of the water supply scheme in Haji Mora village as a paramount intervention within the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) component. Given that approximately 300 households, totaling around 1950 individuals, depended on this scheme, its restoration was deemed crucial. The scheme underwent successful completion, marked by significant enhancements, including the installation of an additional 500-gallon water tank, two extra water taps, and the laying of a new pipeline. Additionally, IRC took measures to improve the water pad, ensuring a hygienic and conducive environment for villagers to access water. These comprehensive upgrades not only bolstered the scheme’s capacity but also enhanced the overall quality and accessibility of clean water for the community.
Achievement: Transformative Impact of Water Supply Scheme
Impact: The completion of the water supply scheme in Haji Mora village has marked a significant achievement, bringing about transformative changes in the lives of its residents. With the restoration of access to clean and regular drinking water, the scheme has had a profound impact on the health and well-being of the villagers.
Access to clean water has not only alleviated health issues but has also revitalized hope for a healthier future among the community members. Mr. Ghulam Abbas Shah, echoing the sentiments of many, expressed profound gratitude, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by the village post-flood. He remarked, “Haji Mora village was badly affected by the flood in 2022, and people here were badly affected by the flood. Clean and regular water was a serious issue in our village. People were victims of several diseases, but after intervention by both HEADS and IRC and the completion of this water supply scheme, local people can now fetch clean water from the scheme, and their health issues are almost resolved as previously.”
The tangible improvements brought about by the water supply scheme have not only enhanced the quality of life but have also restored dignity and hope to the villagers. The scheme stands as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in addressing critical infrastructure needs and improving the well-being of communities affected by disasters.”
Sustainability and Future Plans: Ensuring the long-term sustainability of the water supply scheme in Haji Mora village is paramount for both HEADS and IRC. To achieve this goal, rigorous monitoring and maintenance protocols will be implemented to uphold the scheme’s functionality and effectiveness throughout the project’s duration. Moreover, a village-level operational and maintenance committee has been formed to supervise sustainability efforts. By engaging the community in sustainable water management practices, we aim to safeguard the health and well-being of current and future generations. This collaborative approach seeks to foster resilience and prosperity not only within Haji Mora but also in neighboring areas.
Conclusion: The rehabilitation of the water supply scheme in Haji Mora village exemplifies the power of collaborative efforts in addressing critical infrastructure needs in disaster-affected areas. Through the provision of clean and regular drinking water, the intervention has not only improved health outcomes but has also restored dignity and hope to the villagers. As we celebrate the success of this initiative, let us reaffirm our commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and building a future where access to clean water is a fundamental human right.
