Introduction:

The O2NB Co. Ltd., a South Korean organization focused on sustainable development in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), has partnered with the PSL Foundation to address a critical public health issue in Munshiganj, Bangladesh. Munshiganj, a region heavily affected by Arsenic and Iron contamination in its groundwater, faces significant challenges in providing safe drinking water to its residents. This collaborative project aims to mitigate the impacts of Arsenic and Iron contamination and ensure safe, clean water for the local community.


Project Objectives :

The joint initiative between O2NB and the PSL Foundation focuses on reducing Arsenic and Iron contamination in Munshiganj’s water supply. The project aligns with SDG Goal 6, which seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Specifically, the project aims to:
1. Provide safe and Arsenic and Iron-free drinking water to residents in the affected areas.
2. Build strong local partnerships with government agencies and the community to foster long-term sustainability.
3. Educate and raise awareness among the community about the dangers of Arsenic and Iron contaminated water.


Roles and Responsibilities:

This collaboration divides responsibilities between the two organizations for maximum efficiency and impact.

O2NB's Role: O2NB is providing all the technical support necessary for the project. This includes the installation and maintenance of the water treatment unit (Capacity: 1666.70 Litres/ Hour) designed to remove Arsenic and Iron from the water supply. As an internationally active organization with a reputation for implementing high-tech, sustainable solutions, O2NB ensures that the water treatment technologies used are state-of-the-art and suitable for the local context. Their expertise guarantees that the water purification process is effective, durable, and capable of serving the community for years to come.

PSL Foundation's Role: The PSL Foundation, a key financial partner in the project, is responsible for providing the funds required for civil works related to the installation and infrastructure development of the water treatment unit. Additionally, the PSL Foundation plays a crucial role in connecting with local authorities, particularly the Department of Public Health and Engineering (DPHE). By establishing these connections, PSL Foundation ensures the project gains the necessary approvals and support from government bodies. Furthermore, PSL builds relationships with local residents, fostering community engagement and participation in the project.


Implementation Process:

The project’s implementation follows a well-structured plan, ensuring timely execution and sustainability:

1. Survey and Site Selection: The first phase involved an extensive survey to identify the areas in Munshiganj most affected by Arsenic and Iron contamination. O2NB’s technical team and PSL Foundation’s local partners worked together to select the optimal site for the installation of the water treatment unit.

2. Installation of the Water Treatment Unit: O2NB installed the Arsenic and Iron removal technology, ensuring that it meets international standards for water safety. The unit is designed to be both energy-efficient and user-friendly, ensuring minimal maintenance.

3. Community Engagement and Training : PSL Foundation, with the support of local authorities, facilitated meetings with residents to inform them about the project’s objectives and the dangers of Arsenic and Iron contaminated water. O2NB provided technical training to local engineers and residents to ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of the treatment unit.

4. Monitoring and Evaluation : Regular monitoring of water quality is a key component of the project. O2NB's technical team will conduct periodic checks on the water treatment unit’s performance, while the PSL Foundation will continue to engage with local authorities and the community to gather feedback and ensure long-term success.


Challenges and Solutions:

One of the main challenges faced in this project was gaining the trust of the local community, many of whom were unaware of the risks associated with Arsenic and Iron contamination. To address this, PSL Foundation organized educational campaigns to inform residents about the dangers of consuming contaminated water and the health benefits of the treatment unit.


Conclusion

The collaborative effort between O2NB Co. Ltd. and the PSL Foundation represents a significant step toward solving the issue of Arsenic and Iron contamination in Munshiganj. Through the installation of a water treatment unit and the combined efforts of both organizations, the project is set to improve the health and livelihood of thousands of local residents. By fostering strong community engagement and building local capacity, this partnership will ensure that the solution is sustainable and benefits the community for years to come. This project stands as a model for international cooperation in addressing critical water safety issues in developing regions.