Research Report: Sustainable Water Solution for Climate Vulnerable Communities in Satkhira (Bangladesh, 2025)

Satkhira, one of Bangladesh’s most climate-vulnerable regions, faces acute water scarcity due to salinization, floods, and cyclones. Save the Children’s Satkhira Resilient Water System Pilot Project, in partnership with Uttaran and Glory & Tech, established Reverse Osmosis (RO) plants and rehabilitated Pond Sand Filters (PSFs) to ensure safe water for 20,000 people. Using 15 focus groups, 10 key interviews, and child consultations, the study found significant reductions in waterborne diseases, financial savings, and improved wellbeing in project areas. Community-led Water Management Committees and Women User Groups were central to system maintenance, though high costs, non-functional PSFs, and access barriers persist. The study recommends revenue-based sustainability models, stronger local management capacity, and gender-inclusive water collection. Findings demonstrate that community-driven, technology-enabled solutions can strengthen water security and climate resilience in Bangladesh’s coastal regions.