Increase in Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Supply Facilities in the Southwestern Coastal Region of Bangladesh

Changes in Non-governmental Organisations Initiatives and Expansion of Individual Business Opportunities

Abstract

This study examines the underlying factors in the recent increase in drinking water supply facilities that use reverse osmosis（ RO） in the southwestern coastal region of Bangladesh. Furthermore, it focuses on the relevant initiatives and perceptions of actors who instal and operate these facilities and discusses the potential issues regarding the spread of these facilities. Based on the findings, changes in non-governmental organisation （NGO） initiatives related to the ongoing shift in water sources from surface water to groundwater and the expansion of individual business opportunities have influenced the increase in RO water supply facilities. In addition, while drinking water in the region has traditionally been supplied free of charge by community volunteers, the recent expansion of RO water supply facilities has been motivated by the business aspect of securing revenue by selling water. However, if business-related aspects take precedence in the drinking water supply, various issues, such as exclusion of the poor, guarantee of water quality and environmental impact, may emerge. Therefore, the promotion of volunteer-based drinking water supply and the improvement of related laws are crucial for the future drinking water supply in the region.