Demonstrating Sustainable Operations and Maintenance in Bihar

With more than 90% of rural households connected to piped water, Bihar’s challenge was no longer expanding infrastructure but keeping schemes functional and financially sustainable. This required stronger local institutions, skilled frontline workers, and simple systems that could support day-to-day operations and maintenance.

Since 2021, Arghyam has partnered with the Government of Bihar, AKRSP(I), and Water For People to demonstrate a sustainable O&M model across Muzaffarpur district. The programme strengthened the capacities of Anurakshaks and Ward Implementation and Management Committees while introducing digital tools such as Avni for task tracking and monitoring, and mGramSeva for billing, tariff collection, and financial management.

Over four years, the model evolved through continuous learning and expansion, demonstrating how stronger local institutions, practical digital tools, and community ownership can improve scheme functionality, strengthen cost recovery, and support the long-term sustainability of rural water services.