The specific goal of the Lao water supply and sanitation sector is focusing on safety, stability and sustainability to improve people’s living condition and contribute to socio-economic development.
That was the message conveyed when water supply and sanitation sector officials of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, representatives from water supply enterprises and donors met in Vientiane from December 14-15 to consult on strategy and management of the sector.
At the meeting, participants discussed and shared experiences on different topics, especially opportunities and challenges, vision, management, planning, investment, safety and service. Water supply and sanitation is a priority sector for the government in achieving the Sustainability Development Goals, Deputy Minister of Public Works and Transport, Dr Santisouk Simmalavong told the meeting.
One priority is guaranteeing sufficient water supply and access along with decent sanitation for local people.
Everyone around the world understood the importance of good water supply and safe sanitation, which are basic and major factors in improving people’s living conditions and developing human resources of the country, he commented.
Water supply is also a major factor in promoting agricultural production as well as industrial, service and tourism development, Dr Santisouk said.
However, with increased demand for water supplies, the sector needed to expand services and develop the distribution network in the city and to cover 80 percent of the community by 2020 and reach 90 percent by 2030, Dr Santisouk stressed.
To reach the target, he asked the relevant government sectors and private sector to provide effective management and competent service.
He believed the sector would continue to enhance its cooperation and work together to develop water supply networks to be able to provide service to all locations.
While large numbers of people in towns can access water supplies, many people in rural communities are still in need.
Source: Vientiane Times
