Imphal, January 31: Over 120 households in Nambol Naorem, a village in Manipur, faced ongoing challenges due to annual flooding of the nearby Uthrapat wetland, which contaminated their water sources. Waterborne diseases were common, and residents spent up to 20% of their income buying water from private providers, often from distant sources.
In response, the Realm of Nature Based Actions (RNBA) partnered with New Life International (NLI) to install a water purification system in August 2024, with the support of the People’s Resource Development Association (PRDA). Managed by the Village Development Committee (VDC), the system now provides 8,000 liters of clean water weekly to Nambol Naorem and surrounding villages.
The new system has reduced costs and health risks for families like that of Naorem Dineshor, who saved significant amounts compared to previous water expenses. Village elder Naorem Manglembi Devi, who recalls years of hardship, expressed relief at the community's newfound access to safe water, marking a transformative change in their daily lives.
The collaboration between RNBA, NLI, and PRDA has not only solved a critical issue but also paved the way for sustainable community welfare.