BRAC observes World Water Day

BRAC’s Climate Change Programme (CCP) observed World Water Day 2023 on Wednesday at Mongla Upazila, a coastal community highly vulnerable to climate change and affected by salinity intrusion, especially in the Bagerhat district.

This year's theme for World Water Day is 'Accelerating the change to solve the water and sanitation crises' with an emphasis on the necessity of taking stern action to address the global water crises.

The programme aimed to raise awareness among the community about access to safe drinking water and maintaining water safety protocols in both households and institutions.

BRAC organised several events to mark the occasion of World Water Day, including awareness-raising campaigns, community dialogues and interactive sessions on water security and the importance of safe drinking water. These events aimed to sensitise the local communities and promote behavioural change towards water usage and management.

A ten-day-long drama was organised in various locations across Mongla to raise awareness among the people about climate change and its related challenges. These challenges include rising sea levels and salinity intrusion which causes a shortage of safe drinking water and puts thousands of people at risk.

Md Liakath Ali, PhD, director of CCP said, “climate change is exacerbating the water crises, and improving access to safe drinking water is urgently needed in coastal communities of Bangladesh. As we strive towards SDG 6, prioritising water security and inclusive action is crucial for a sustainable future. Through innovation and appropriate collective effort, we can address the impact of climate change and ensure safe drinking water for all."

BRAC’s CCP with support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark in Bangladesh has addressed the crisis regarding access to safe water in Mongla, which is a pressing issue that affects the coastal communities. Hence, it requires immediate action to ensure the availability of clean and safe water for the community for inclusive development.