Addressing the critical issue of the lack of piped water supply in villages and rural areas is a pressing challenge that affects the daily lives and well-being of countless people. In response to this challenge, HWF (Human Welfare Foundation) has undertaken a proactive approach, focusing on the establishment of open wells in these rural communities.

The impact of these open wells cannot be overstated. Specifically, in the Barmer region of Rajasthan, which is characterized by its arid and desert-like conditions, the construction of open wells has brought about a profound transformation in the lives of the desert settlers. The consequences of this initiative are vividly illustrated in a study conducted by us in the Barmer region.

Prior to the construction of these open wells, it was a daily ordeal for thousands of women in this region. These women, often the backbone of their households, were forced to spend an astonishing 4 to 6 hours every day just to fetch water from distant wells. This arduous and time-consuming task not only took a physical toll but also had a significant impact on the trajectory of their lives. Their childhood, youth, and adult years were consumed by the relentless struggle for access to water. This precious resource was so scarce that it had the power to shape the life experiences of an entire community, particularly its women.

HWF has implemented open well projects in 9 north Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and Assam. These projects aim to alleviate the water scarcity issue and improve the quality of life for communities across these regions.