Ensuring Reliable Water Access in Myanmar's Dry Zone

Surviving the scorching summer in Myanmar's Dry Zone is poses significant challenges. With water scarcity exacerbating the struggle, accessing clean water becomes an urgent need for rural communities. UNDP recognizes these challenges and is dedicated to building resilience in these communities. 

One of the UNDP's interventions in Kan Ni Gyi village highlights this commitment. Without a sand filter in Kan Ni Gyi Pond, the village's primary water source, clean drinking water remains elusive.

"The availability of clean drinking water from this pond is vital for our health as it serves our village and waters about 8,000 people from seven neighboring villages." said Daw Paw Naing, a woman who experienced the health problems because of unclean water.  

To address this, UNDP collaborated with the village committee to implement a water purification initiative, enabling clean water access for the community and neighboring villages. The renovated Kan Ni Gyi Pond can now store up to two million gallons of water, ensuring a sufficient supply during the scorching summer months.    

U Maung Win, another village member explained how they used to struggle to store clean water for summer in the past years. "Before UNDP renovated the pond and installed a sand trap, the water was undrinkable, leading to health problems. With the renovation, we can now store lots of gallons of water, enabling us to survive the summer."   

UNDP's efforts provided clean water and enhanced resilience by involving village members in project implementation through the 'Cash for Work' activity, offering opportunities for villagers to earn temporary income. 

“During the pond renovation, UNDP prioritized hiring vulnerable individuals from our village to work as laborers, providing us with additional income during a time when job opportunities were scarce due to the end of the harvest season.” Ma Paw Naing added.     

Together, we're working to transform challenges into opportunities, building resilience, transforming communities and ensuring sustainable development in Myanmar's Dry Zone.