Options for improving water supply to low-income communities in Karachi

Abstract

Low-income settlements in Karachi have faced acute water shortages during the past two decades. Different approaches were devised to address this situation by concerned stakeholders comprising area residents, water utility, local government officials, community groups, and formal and informal water vendors. Development of awami community-managed tanks was one such option. Evolved through cooperative action, philanthropic contributions and partial government subsidy, the awami tanks served as an interim water supply arrangement for several years. Earlier documentation and analysis of this format of supply adequately established this factor. A recent survey of the status of some low-income localities has shown that while awami tanks are largely abandoned, the existing service is far below the desired level. This paper examines the relevance of awami tanks in the present context of water supply arrangements. Various localities in Orangi in Karachi have been studied for water supply problems. On-site observations, focused group meetings with area residents and interviews with key respondents were the main components of fact-finding work.