Mardan: A consultative workshop on the WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) budget was organized in Mardan with the collaboration of the Freshwater Action Network South Asia Pakistan (FANSA) and under the auspices of the Integrated Regional Support Programme (IRSP). The workshop discussed various proposals and strategies for increasing the budget for water, sanitation and hygiene services at the provincial, district and TMA levels, ensuring effective budget allocation, and strengthening financial support for the sector.
Former City Mayor Mardan Himayatullah Mayar was the chief guest, while Additional Deputy Commissioner (Relief) Mardan Iqbal Hussain Khattak, Professor Dr. Hussain Ali of Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, and Pakistan Muslim League (N) female leader Nazia Shah attended as distinguished guests.
Speaking on the occasion, IRSP representatives Altaf ur Rehman, Muhammad Ismail, Imran Ali Khattak, and Nosheen Sardar emphasized the need for effective budgeting in the WASH sector, better utilization of available resources, and coordinated strategies among different government institutions.
The speakers said that access to clean drinking water, sanitation and hygiene facilities is essential for public health and sustainable development. Therefore, adequate and timely financial resources must be allocated to these sectors. The workshop also discussed WASH budget priorities, financial requirements, and challenges faced at the local level.
Representatives from the Health Department, Education Department, Population Welfare Department, and other relevant government departments participated in the workshop. They shared their views on existing WASH-related challenges, budgetary requirements, and possible solutions.
Participants agreed that greater institutional coordination and effective financial planning are essential for improving WASH facilities and ensuring better services for communities.