The Freshwater Action Network South Asia (FANSA) has been working tirelessly to promote inclusive sanitation practices in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, through its “Rising for Rights” project. Implemented in collaboration with local stakeholders, including government representatives, civil society organizations, and media participants, this initiative aims to address sanitation-related challenges and identify actionable solutions for the betterment of the city’s sanitation system ¹.
A major breakthrough was achieved when the City Government of Mardan introduced a City-Wide Inclusive Sanitation (CWIS) budget head, allocating PKR 1 million in the last financial year. This initiative was repeated in the 2025-26 budget, with the City Government again allocating PKR 1 million. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to prioritizing sanitation and hygiene in Mardan.
The CWIS approach focuses on providing equitable access to clean and safe sanitation facilities, particularly for marginalized communities. By adopting this approach, the City Government of Mardan is poised to effectively manage sanitation services, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable environment for its citizens.
Key Highlights of the Initiative
– *Inclusive Sanitation Practices*: The project promotes inclusive and sustainable sanitation practices, prioritizing the needs of marginalized communities.
– *Stakeholder Engagement*: The initiative fosters collaboration among various stakeholders, including government representatives, civil society organizations, and media participants.
– *Budget Allocation*: The City Government’s repeated allocation of PKR 1 million for CWIS demonstrates its commitment to sanitation and hygiene in Mardan.
– *Improved Sanitation Services*: The project aims to facilitate the effective and safe management of sanitation services, ensuring a healthier environment for citizens ².
Impact and Future Prospects
The “Rising for Rights” project has been instrumental in promoting city-wide inclusive sanitation in Mardan. With the City Government’s continued support and commitment, this initiative is likely to have a lasting impact on the city’s sanitation landscape. As FANSA continues to work with local stakeholders, we can expect to see significant improvements in Mardan’s sanitation services, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment for its citizens ¹.
