A survey by Bhutan's health ministry shows that up to 65% of the country's rural water supply schemes are in need of repair. A little over 12% are not functioning at all, presenting a risk of contamination.

The survey appears to contradict the government of Bhutan's claim that it has achieved 89% coverage for safe drinking water supplies across the country. Ugyen Dophu of the health ministry said that where schemes were non-functional (12%) or low functional (19%), people were probably using alternative sources of water, which could be contaminated.

Dophu added that the schemes have fallen into disrepair because there have been no dedicated water engineers in the dzongkhags (districts) for several years. In 2003, when engineers were still in place, the schemes were all operating or being constructed on schedule.

Although the government increased the budget for water and sanitation in 2008, the health ministry says that it has fewer funds for water supply and sanitation than for advertising.

Related news:

• Bhutan: traditional water-sharing system 'feudal and unfair', Source South Asia, 20 Aug 2008;
• Bhutan: International Sanitation Day observed, Source South Asia, 18 Jul 2008

Contact: Dr. Ugen Dophu, Director, Dept. of Public Health, Ministry of Public Health, Bhutan, drugendophu@health.gov.bt

Source: Kuensel online, 4 Oct 2008

Tags: capacity development, rural wash, south asia, water supply