Predominant Drinking Water Treatment Technologies in Urban Areas of Myanmar: Challenges and Solutions. A Review

Abstract

Access to clean drinking water is essential for public health and socioeconomic development in Myanmar, where rapid urbanization has heightened the need for effective water treatment solutions. Adequate water treatment in urban areas is crucial for reducing waterborne diseases, such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid, thus lowering infant mortality rates due to severe diarrhea and dehydration. Economically, a healthier population results in a more productive workforce and can attract tourism, boosting local economies. Environmentally, proper water treatment prevents pollutants from contaminating rivers and lakes, protecting ecosystems and biodiversity, and ensuring industrial and residential waste does not harm the environment. As urban populations expand, the need for clean water rises, necessitating efficient water treatment for sustainable development and attracting investments in essential infrastructures like sanitation and healthcare. Effective water treatment systems are vital for managing flood impacts, providing safe drinking water during floods, and recycling water during droughts.  However, Myanmar faces challenges such as aging infrastructure, limited financial and technical resources, and the need for strict enforcement of water quality standards. Investing in modern water treatment technologies and capacity building for local technicians and engineers is essential for improving efficiency and effectiveness. Raising community awareness and involving local communities in water management practices can also enhance the sustainability of water treatment efforts. Therefore, improving water treatment infrastructure and governance is a critical step for Myanmar's urban areas to ensure public health, support economic growth, protect the environment, foster sustainable development, and build resilience against climate change. This review examines the predominant drinking water treatment technologies in urban Myanmar, identifies the challenges faced, and proposes potential solutions.