Despite receiving high levels of precipitation, the regions of Murree and Kotli Sattiyan are grappling with chronic water shortages, a critical challenge addressed by a year-long educational initiative whose first phase was formally marked at a ceremony here.
According to AKU information today, the project, a collaboration between the Aga Khan University’s Institute for Educational Development (AKU-IED) and NED University of Engineering and Technology, focused on improving Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) awareness and promoting rainwater harvesting as a climate-resilient solution.
The water scarcity in these areas is attributed to steep terrain causing significant runoff, compounded by pressures from tourism and inadequate infrastructure, which hinder water retention and distribution.
The educational component supported a broader rooftop rainwater harvesting programme initiated by the Government of Punjab”s Urban Unit. This government scheme integrated safe storage and filtration systems across more than 1,100 households in its initial stage.
Through an education-led approach involving school-based learning, hands-on activities, and community outreach, the initiative directly engaged 4,726 students and 220 community members, strengthening hygiene practices and environmental stewardship.
‘This project has offered a unique opportunity to work directly with the government,’ said Dr Fozia Parveen of AKU. ‘In the next phase, we will establish a water quality lab in Kotli Sattiyan with a focus on citizen science. Our goal is to translate these insights into actionable recommendations for policymakers.’
Project leaders Dr Parveen and Dr Abdul Ghaffar from NED reaffirmed their commitment to a second phase. Key plans for the next stage include the establishment of the Water Quality Laboratory in Kotli Sattiyan by AKU.
The closing ceremony, held at AKU’s Karimabad campus, was attended by stakeholders from the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), NED University, and AKU. The project stands as a strong example of local partnership for creating sustainable and climate-responsive WASH solutions in Pakistan.