Differential Access: Water infrastructure and Water Quality Awareness among Lahore's Urban Poor

Abstract

This research aims to qualify how low-income urban individuals in Lahore, Pakistan obtain and utilize water for day-to-day use. The study uses qualitative research methods including observation of water filtration plants and of individuals in their homes, along with 39 semi-structured interviews primarily with low income individuals, and also the local water utility, NGOs, and water researchers. It was found that water filtration plants have a strikingly positive reception among Lahore's urban poor, with individuals citing confidence in WFPs providing clean drinking water. The majority of respondents reported using WFPs to obtain drinking water or aspiring to do so. To facilitate more efficient use of WFPs we recommend that an inventory of WFPs in Lahore be created and disseminated to the local water sector. People obtained water for household use either from the local water utility, WASA Lahore, or via borewells placed inside one's home. Individuals who had borewells were much more aware and susceptible to fluctuations in the water table whereas individuals who obtained water from WASA were more concerned about water contamination. As all of Lahore's domestic water supply is sourced from the aquifer, we support the creation of a aquifer users association to administer tariffs that allow for more equitable distribution of cost and water.