Ambuja Foundation has worked with communities of Chandrapur, Ambujanagar, and Nadi Kudi to install water systems that distribute water equitably, maintaining both quality and quantity. These include RO systems, Water ATMs, and networks of pipes and taps – all owned and managed by the community. During the pandemic, communities ensured water remained accessible for proper sanitation while following social distancing norms.
'A water distribution system transports drinking water from the centralized treatment plant or well supply to consumers’ taps. These systems aim to preserve water quality and quantity and maintain sufficient pressure. They consist of pipes, pumps, valves, storage tanks, reservoirs, and other components.' (Bhardwaj and Metzgar, 2001)
The Community Led Water Distribution Systems (within 500m of households) are a key Ambuja Foundation program that solved drinking water issues in Chandrapur (Maharashtra), Ambujanagar (Gujarat), and Nadikudi (Andhra Pradesh). These include an RO system in Andhra Pradesh, RO and Water ATM in Chandrapur, and a distribution pipeline in Ambujanagar – all community-owned.
Stories of transformation to community ownership
Reverse Osmosis Water Purifying System & Water ATM – Nadi Kudi, Andhra Pradesh
In Nadi Kudi, the community faced high TDS and pollutants in groundwater, leading to arthritis, typhoid, and other diseases. Ambuja Foundation showed water analysis reports to explain the risks of poor water quality.
Brainstorming led to installing an RO plant with a fair distribution system. The foundation insisted on community contribution to build ownership.
- Women SHGs contributed Rs. 30,000 and a federation added Rs. 4,000 for a 500 LPH RO plant.
- A community member and Panchayat donated land.
- The local Milk Association contributed Rs. 2 lakhs for building construction.
By 2010, 4 RO plants were installed in Budavada. Overall, 19 RO plants now serve project villages in Chandrapur and Sankrail, reaching about 4,600 households and supplying ~65,000 litres/day. These systems are managed by Village Development or RO Committees, often led by women, with training on leadership and accounting provided by the foundation.
Network of Distribution Pipes & Taps – Ambujanagar, Gujarat
Ambuja Foundation developed a network of pipelines to deliver drinking water directly to households. In 2018, they completed a scheme in Vadnagar covering 1,245 households, eventually extending facilities to 13 core villages.
In Singsar village, a large population caused scarcity. The foundation dug a new well 1.5 km away and connected it to households, ensuring year-round water availability.
Management was handed to Paani Samiti (Water Committee), which collects charges and appoints a water operator. TDS is checked monthly (typically 100–350 ppm). Today, 13 villages benefit from doorstep water supply, supported by 77 committee members.
How do we sustain community ownership?
Ambuja Foundation builds people’s institutions to own and sustain water systems:
- Women SHG Federations: Well-organized groups that understand sustainable interventions easily.
- Water User Associations: Plan repairs and ensure water availability before drought, pooling human and financial resources.
- Village Development Committees (VDC): Manage RO plants and distribution, hire operators, maintain financial records verified regularly by the foundation. Water is sold at Rs. 3–5 per 20 litres via coupons or cash-and-carry systems.
Ambuja Foundation also conducts workshops on TDS testing, RO maintenance, and Water ATM usage to ensure safe water supply.
To know more about these systems and distribution channels, contact: brajeshsingh.tomar.ext@ambujafoundation.com
