Chiang Mai Journal of Science

        The challenges facing the water supply jand sanitation sector in the years to come include keeping pace of development with net population growth, closing the coverage and services gap (with emphasis on sanitation which lags considerably behind water supply) and improving the quality of services. In order to meet these challenges, a public-private partnership model which emphasizes the outmost contribution from each stakeholder is necessary. The challenging issue of water supply and sanitation are not only related to scarcity of financial resources, but also development of appropriate technologies that underline the principle of sustainable development and hygiene education/ awareness. While the role of government as facilitator rather than implementer is important, with active community involvement in the sector development, the role of private sector is equally important in financial investment and developing appropriate technologies. The implementation of demand-driven programs with active community participation enhances the program sustainability. This holistic approach of developing water supply and sanitation sector is intended ultimately for the betterment of human health and environmental condeitions.