The World Bank’s commitment to addressing global water challenges was brought into focus as Mr. Saroj Kumar Jha, Director of the Global Water Practice, led a mission to Soba Nagar, a Katchi Abad in Karachi. The purpose of the visit was to assess the progress of ongoing water and sewerage projects in the area.
Mr. Jha and his team were greeted by Mr. Muhammad Usman Moazzam, the Project Director of KWSSIP. Mr. Moazzam provided a comprehensive overview of the efforts undertaken by KWSSIP to meet the critical need for water and sewerage services in underserved communities like Soba Nagar.
During the briefing, Mr. Moazzam highlighted that the sub-project in Soba Nagar aims not only for infrastructural improvements but also emphasizes effective communication, social mobilization, and facilitating billing processes through a robust database system. This integrated approach is crucial for sustainable development and ensuring the efficient delivery of services to the community.
Engr. Syed Salahuddin Ahmed, CEO of KWSC, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the initiative. He mentioned that as the project progresses, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) will play pivotal roles in revenue collection and promoting responsible practices such as safe water usage and proper sewage disposal.
Engr. Syed Salahuddin Ahmed also highlighted the significance of door-to-door campaigns for community education and engagement. These initiatives will not only raise awareness but also empower residents to actively participate in improving their living conditions.
The visit also saw the presence of Mr. Joses, Regional Manager, along with other officials from the World Bank and the KWSSIP team members. Their collective presence underscored the collaborative efforts and partnerships essential for addressing the complex challenges of water and sanitation in urban informal settlements.
As the World Bank continues to support initiatives like KWSSIP, it reaffirms its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 – ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. The visit to Soba Nagar serves as a testament to the progress made and the determination to build a more equitable and sustainable future for communities worldwide.