| Water Conservation in our Communities |
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| 24.12.2008 |
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Every living thing on earth needs water.
Using water in a rational way without wasting it is something people
have done for centuries in different ways.
Functioning water
infrastructures such as pipes, tanks and taps are an essential part of
life in any community. People living in the ELS target communities in
Fergana region know how much effort and work goes into keeping the
water running from the tap when and where is needed.People in many parts of Fergana region
limited access to clean drinking water, as the infrastructure
deteriorates, and sewage and industrial waste are allowed to leak into
the water supply. Many water supply networks are in a poor condition,
and some need to be completely replaced. But with the help of the ELS
project, now people in project communities can enjoy the benefits of
clean and safe drinking water. In order to ensure adequate water
resources for our future needs, we must put conservation measures into
effect now. Practicing water conservation on a regular basis can
prevent and even postpone the building of new water supply
infrastructures. When utilities are able to reduce demand, they can
frequently extend the life of existing infrastructures, saving the cost
of rebuilding or renovating. This gives extra sustainability to the
water projects implemented in the communities.
For example, all taps installed with help of
ELS are numbered for easy reference, water meters are installed, the
water quality is checked by a trained volunteer in the community, leaks
are reported to the Mahalla Committee, information is shared on how to
save and manage the water more efficiently. Maintenance plans with an
agreed schedule for maintenance and their costs for the next 5 years
are shared by initiative groups and community leaders with the Mahalla
Committee and the contractors employed by the ELS to rehabilitate water
infrastructures.
Guided by the strengths and weaknesses of each community the initiative groups develop water management tools that promote sustainable water management, long-term planning, and technical capacity-building to enhance living standards and conserve the environment. |