Concluding Remarks

CONCLUSIVE REMARKS

33. The supply of safe and adequate water is the main goal of most rural village water programs. A water supply system, however, should not only be technically appropriate but should also satisfy the users. Unfortunately, quite often, water development organizations while direct their efforts towards the application of technical solutions, they frequently disregard other equally important factors such as the village social aspects. The socio-economic evaluation of the prevailing conditions at local level may contribute to the success of water programs. In addition, full consideration should be given to the following points:

A water supply system has to be appropriate in terms of costs and expected benefits; therefore those that are simple and durable are the most appropriate and will be easily replicated.
Standard methods are not always applicable, as, under similar conditions, what is appropriate for people living in one area may not be appropriate for people living in another area.
The financial conditions of the villagers and their capability and willingness to pay for the water they use should be considered.
The technology should be appropriate to both the users and the organization or institution responsible for planning, implementation, and operation of the rural water supply systems.
Risks of water system failure are greatly reduced if, in addition to the use of simple low-cost technology, appropriate to local conditions and easily replicable, there is an active participation of villagers in the various phases of the program.
Health education, village sanitation, training in the use and repair of equipment, contribution of the users to pay for the cost of the operation and maintenance are all essential to smooth operation and long life of the water supply systems.