What is the scope to increase water service financial sustainability in Mandalay without negatively impacting access for the poor?

The Mandalay City Development Committee (MCDC) is facing severe challenges in improving its water service coverage. It is also facing mounting financial losses. In this context, MCDC called for actionable insights on improving its coverage and the potential for tariff hikes to ensure financial sustainability. Athena and the International Growth Centre's assessment looked at the demand for water service across six townships and the expectations among residents. The study included a sample of 1,480 households and small businesses and also involved qualitative interviews with various stakeholders. This helped in understanding water usage patterns in the region. Factoring in the socio-economic challenges in the region, it also assessed the feasibility of additional funding mechanisms. The findings of this study will play a key role in influencing the decisions that MCDC takes to expand Mandalay's piped-water supply network and improve its financial viability.