KARACHI: The Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP), in collaboration with the National Rural Support Programme (NRSP), held a significant “grand dialogue event” in Essa Nagri, Karachi, to empower the deprived communities in Karachi’s Slums.
The event attended by key stakeholders and local residents, marked a pivotal moment in addressing the pressing issues of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in Karachi’s slums.
Dr. Rashid Bajwa, CEO of NRSP, emphasized the importance of social mobilization in transforming urban slums. “The strength of any community lies in its ability to come together for a common cause. Through effective social mobilization and the formation of sustainable CBOs, we can ensure long-term improvements in water, sewerage, and sanitation services in the Katchi Abadis,” Dr. Bajwa remarked. He also fielded questions from the audience, providing updates on the project’s progress and reaffirming NRSP’s commitment to uplifting these underserved communities.
Hameeda Kaleem from KWSSIP also underscored the importance of WASH services for the well-being of slum communities. “Access to clean water, proper sanitation, and good hygiene practices is not just a necessity but a fundamental right for every individual. Through strong partnerships and community-driven initiatives, we can build healthier, more resilient communities where these essential services are sustainable and accessible to all,” she said.
The dialogue is part of the broader KWSSIP-NRSP initiative, titled ‘Strengthening of Katchi Abadi Cell and Engagement of CBOs’, which aims to transform water and sewerage infrastructure while simultaneously driving community-led social mobilization. By engaging residents in WASH-related initiatives, the formation of CBOs becomes a key component, empowering community members to actively manage water and sanitation services, promote hygiene practices, and contribute to the overall improvement of their communities.
In attendance were prominent figures including UC Chairperson Sanam Baloch, community leaders, WASH Committee members, and a large number of local residents. Their presence underscored the growing collaboration between government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities in addressing the challenges faced by Karachi’s slums.
The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to continue supporting the mobilization process and to contribute to the successful formation and functioning of the CBOs, which will serve as a critical platform for community empowerment and infrastructure development in the Katchi Abadis.
