Diplomatic Desk:
The Ambassador of the Netherlands to Bangladesh, Joris van Bommel, visited Barisal district from 12-13 August to explore the potential of developing a safe, affordable and sustainable water supply system in Bangladesh. During the visit, he visited the smart and affordable piped water supply system being implemented under the ‘Building Water Business (BWB)’ programme, an initiative of Max Foundation and Max Social Enterprise.
This long-term programme, funded by the Embassy of the Netherlands, is being implemented by Max Tapwater—a social enterprise of Max Foundation and Max Social Enterprise. The main objective of the programme is to make small-scale piped water supply networks in rural areas commercially viable and to bring safe water to the doorsteps of the people through local entrepreneurs.
During his visit to Barisal, the Ambassador observed various aspects of water supply activities conducted through smart grid, digital metering, remote monitoring and mobile payment systems. The potential of ensuring reliable and safe water supply in rural areas at a comparatively low cost through the integrated use of these technologies was highlighted.
The potential of public-private partnerships (PPP) also gained special importance during the visit. This initiative has highlighted a practical example of how a sustainable and commercially viable water supply system can be developed in the long term through the integrated participation of government institutions, social enterprises and the private sector.
Those concerned believe that if the involvement of local entrepreneurs and the use of modern digital technology can be increased, it is possible to expand safe water supply in rural and remote areas of the country more effectively. At the same time, such initiatives can also create opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship at the local level.
This initiative in Barisal is being seen as a potential model for expanding safe and affordable water supply in Bangladesh. Such activities, combined with public-private collaboration and social initiatives, can pave a new path for delivering safe and affordable water to every household in the country.
