In total, the project comprises the replacement and establishment of 2,600 km of water pipes. In about five years’ time, 8 of Dhaka’s 12 million citizens will once again be able to enjoy absolutely clean drinking water. 

The challenge of clean drinking water in Dhaka
”The fundamental issue is that the water never reaches the citizens of Dhaka. The supply lines are leaking by up to 60 per cent. These pipes have been made of poor materials, and – at the same time – the design of the supply network is resulting in insufficient water pressure,” says senior consultant Jens Thøgersen. Thøgersen is responsible for Grontmij’s Bangladesh water projects and is stationed in Bangladesh for the duration of the project.

He adds: ”Well over 85 per cent of Dhaka’s drinking water derives from the underground below the city itself, whereas only 15 per cent comes from surface sources. The difficulties arising from the groundwater level and supply lines constitute massive problems. The city’s sewer system is in such bad repair that, inevitably, sewage water will seep into the supply pipes when these are not under pressure.

Master plan for water supply
Jens Thøgersen concludes: “Since many of the pipes run below heavily trafficked streets, the project represents a major challenge. But we feel well equipped for the task, since, previously, we have participated in the preparation of a master plan for the Dhaka water supply.”