The flow of hope: A lifeline of clean water in Bangkorn village
Bangkorn is a village in Rieb Roy commune, Rovieng district, Preah Vihear province. It is about 140km from the capital of Preah Vihear province. The people there lack safe water for daily use. The population must trek between 500 m and 5 km to get water from small ponds and streams. The people of Bangkorn and children in particular were prone to respiratory diseases, diarrhoea, and other waterborne and excreta-related disorders due to inadequate hygiene and sanitation practices.
“Sometimes I couldn’t get to school on time since I needed to go bring water for my family; now I don’t have to worry because the pipe is connected to my water jar,” said Vireak, a 14-year- old boy and the oldest son of a family of six. Before having a pipe water system, Vireak’s family had been using water that was brought from the village well and small ponds, along with other families.
After the assessment, a Community Sponsorship fund was contributed to construct a medium-pipe water system for 2 communes (Rieb Roy and Rohas) in Rovieng to support the community in access to clean water and protect children from infection and disease. The water system was built using durable and high-quality materials, ensuring its longevity and reliability.
In August 2023, the medium water pipe systems were opened to serve children and people inside the 2 communes, which benefit 3 villages, including Bangkorn, by allowing them to easily access clean and safe water for their daily usage. The medium water pipe system not only contributes to the daily needs of the villagers and Vireak’s family but also generates income for the household as they are using the water for their family’s farm to grow vegetables and raise farm animals. With the pipe connected to the village’s households, families can save time and improve their health and hygiene, especially children like Vireak, who can go to school at ease without worrying about any risks that they may face from collecting water far from their houses.
Under the management of the Water Management Committee, the water system provides safe and clean water to 291 of Bangkorn’s total population, including 123 of the most vulnerable children (78 girls) inside Bangkorn village.