Kasur: A new groundwater treatment plant was inaugurated in Kot Maiga village, marking a significant step in providing safe drinking water to a rural community in Punjab, Pakistan, where arsenic contamination has been a longstanding issue. The project, funded by the Government of Korea, aims to tackle high arsenic levels in groundwater, offering a sustainable solution to the affected population.

The launch ceremony, held on June 18, 2025, was attended by members of the Forman Christian College (FCCU) project team and local villagers. This plant is the third of its kind in the area, addressing the critical need for clean drinking water due to arsenic contamination that has plagued the community for years.

Dr. Shinho Chung, the principal investigator, handed over the plant’s ownership to the village community, empowering them to manage this vital resource. The gesture was made on behalf of the Korean Ambassador to Pakistan, Mr. Kijun Park, and was witnessed by various officials and local leaders.

The groundwater in the region has been found to have arsenic concentrations far exceeding the Pakistan Environmental Quality Standard limit of 50 ppb. The new plant, capable of treating 10,000 liters per day, is set to provide clean water to approximately 5,000 people daily, using a mix of solar and LESCO electricity for sustainable operation.

This initiative is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 6.1, aiming for universal access to safe drinking water. It also exemplifies the ongoing collaboration between Korea and Pakistan in improving public health and reducing the burdens associated with accessing clean water.