Access to clean water is a fundamental human right and vital to maintaining good health. Yet, in Afghanistan's remote areas, many communities still struggle to obtain safe drinking water. A staggering many Afghans lack access to clean water, leaving rural populations, in particular, vulnerable to water-borne diseases. The residents of Quli-Urdo Camp, a village in the central district of Gardez, Paktia province, were no exception. Extreme poverty and scarce resources prevented them from addressing their growing water crisis.

For years, families in Quli-Urdo Camp were forced to send their children on long, dangerous journeys to fetch water. This daily trek, undertaken in all weather conditions, including heat, floods, and rain, disrupted the children’s education and posed significant health risks. Moreover, existing water points (WPs), like the one owned by 48-year-old Dad Gul, had become unusable due to disrepair.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, DACAAR launched its "WASH in Community" program in April 2023 and will run until the end of November 2024. The project is funded by BHA/USAID, https://www.usaid.gov/ to rehabilitate water points and provide essential hygiene education. As part of this initiative, Dad Gul’s well was fully repaired. DACAAR replaced the old pedestal, rods, plunger, and pipelines, chlorinated the water, and renovated the apron around the well. The well was brought back to full functionality, and a water management group was established to oversee its ongoing maintenance.

The transformation was immediate. Dad Gul, expressing his gratitude, shared, "Now, we know how to protect ourselves from diseases and create healthy water. My children no longer have to travel long distances for water and can attend school on time."

This program not only restored access to clean water but also empowered the community with knowledge. The villagers are now committed to maintaining hygiene and cleanliness to prevent water-borne diseases.

Thanks to DACAAR’s efforts, Quli-Urdo Camp now has safe, accessible water, significantly improving the lives of its residents.

Written by: Israrullah Sahil