Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), in collaboration with the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), has completed a major clean drinking water initiative that is bringing sustainable access to safe potable water to more than 150,000 people in the water-scarce regions of South Punjab and Sindh.
Launched as part of Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day celebrations, the project reflects a shared commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable communities while addressing one of the country’s most pressing environmental and public health challenges.
The initiative focuses on communities whose water sources were severely damaged or contaminated during the devastating floods of 2024. By restoring access to clean drinking water, the project aims to reduce waterborne diseases, improve public health, and strengthen climate resilience in affected areas.
To ensure long-term sustainability, the project includes a range of climate-resilient water solutions. These include Reverse Osmosis (RO) plants, rainwater harvesting systems, bio-sand filters, hand pumps, and tube wells, enabling communities to access reliable and safe drinking water despite changing environmental conditions.
The latest initiative builds on the success of PTCL’s earlier clean water program in Thar, which benefited more than 15,000 people. Following the positive results of that project, the company expanded its efforts by deploying more advanced water technologies across a broader geographical area in partnership with PPAF.
PTCL said the initiative aligns with its long-term vision of creating shared value by addressing critical social and environmental issues while contributing to Pakistan’s sustainable development goals. The project also marks the company’s own 79-year journey of connecting people and supporting national progress beyond its telecommunications business.
Speaking about the initiative, Nadeem Khan, Chief Executive Officer of PTCL, emphasized that access to clean drinking water is a fundamental human need. He said the company felt a responsibility to support communities after the 2024 floods left thousands of families without safe water, adding that PTCL remains committed to contributing to a stronger, more resilient, and inclusive Pakistan.
Nader Gul Barech, Chief Executive Officer of the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund, highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships in addressing climate-related challenges. He noted that access to safe drinking water is essential for improving public health, livelihoods, and community resilience, adding that the collaboration with PTCL is helping deliver sustainable development solutions for vulnerable populations.
The clean water initiative forms part of PTCL’s broader ‘DilSe’ sustainability platform, which focuses on improving quality of life through projects promoting digital inclusion, economic resilience, and community development. The platform supports initiatives designed to create lasting social impact while contributing to national development priorities.
Experts believe access to safe drinking water remains one of Pakistan’s most critical development challenges, particularly in regions affected by climate change, drought, and flooding. Sustainable water infrastructure not only improves public health but also strengthens local economies by reducing healthcare costs and improving overall quality of life.
As Pakistan celebrates another year of independence, PTCL and PPAF’s partnership demonstrates how collaboration between the corporate and development sectors can help address pressing national challenges. By investing in resilient water infrastructure, the initiative is expected to create lasting benefits for thousands of families while supporting the country’s broader climate adaptation and sustainable development efforts.
