Author: Chan Mra Thandar
AIT Library Call Number: AIT Thesis no.DP-23-01
Year: 2023
Academic Program: Development Planning Management and Innovation (DPMI)
Type: Thesis (M. Sc.) – Asian Institute of Technology, 2023
Examination Committee: Phuoc Lai Nguyen Thi (Chairperson); Mokbul Morshed Ahmad, Simon Guerrero Cruz (Examination Committee Members)
Abstract: The main urban water supply sources in Mrauk U, Rakhine state of Myanmar are lakes. Three main lakes, Let Se Kan (lake), Anuma Kan and Taung Phyu Lake are ancient lakes that are historically the main sources of municipal water supply. This study examines the challenges and dynamics of municipal water resource management in Mrauk U, Myanmar, with a focus on the ancient lakes. The primary data was collected from 396 individuals from 201 households in seven different wards and 40 key informant interviews from different government and non-governmental organizations. The study reveals the lakes’ significant role in municipal water management and identifies obstacles hindering effective management, particularly in water distribution and supply. This study reveals that low-income individuals heavily rely on the lakes for drinking water, exacerbating inequalities in water usage, while challenges such as limited tap water availability, irregular water provision, insufficient supply, unreliable electricity, water quality issues, and inadequate water supply during the dry season hinder effective municipal water management. Stakeholder analysis highlights the municipality’s responsibility, but top-down approaches and resource limitations impede water governance. Poorly defined roles, power imbalances, and a lack of coordination further complicate water resource management. The study also proposes recommendations, including consideration for other water sources, valve installation, reliable water supply during power outages, systematic metering, waste pollution control, and community engagement to ensure water security, the preservation of the lakes and the well-being of the community.
Scholarship Donor(s): Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst (DAAD)
Note: A thesis submitted in patial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Development Planning Management and Innovation
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