Essential Elements for the Sustainability of Small Water Systems

The main problem of small drinking water supply systems is lack of sustainability. Although there is not a simple formula to solve that problem, in this paper some alternatives are envisaged. The proposed measures are related to the project formulation process of small water supply systems; to management schemas used in construction and operation; and to supportive and supervision strategies. The paper also includes the following recomendations: to consolidate an interagency group to prepare guidelines for the formulation of snmall drinking water supply projects taking into account the proposed measures; to evaluate the drinking water supply system and income generation projects carried out jountly by CEPIS and ADRA/OFASA of Peru and to disseminate its results