7th June 2024: Responding to the urgent need for access to safe drinking water amid rising temperatures across the country, HSBC India, in partnership with The Social Lab (TSL) and United Way Mumbai (UWM), has commenced an initiative aimed at ensuring the well-being of urban communities across key metropolitan cities, with a primary focus on Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Delhi-NCR, which are among the major cities facing severe drinking water shortages.
The initiative involves the installation of water kiosks strategically positioned in high-traffic locations across the five cities. These water kiosks, accessible round the clock, are equipped to dispense over 500 liters of clean drinking water daily at each location. As a result, more than 10,000 liters of free clean drinking water will be made available every day, benefiting thousands of individuals helping them combat dehydration and heat strokes during the sweltering summer months.
Industry statistics shows that the heat wave in April this year was far worse than in 2023, the warmest year on record so far and this trend seems to continue in May and June. The national capital reportedly recorded its highest-ever temperature at 52.3 degree Celsius last week. Red alerts have been issued for parts of the country, warning that there is a very high likelihood of developing heat illness and heat stroke in all ages, with extreme care needed for vulnerable people.
Smt. Aloka Majumdar, MD, Global Head of Philanthropy and Head of Sustainability – India, HSBC, said, “Access to clean drinking water is a fundamental human right, and through this initiative we aim to address this critical need in our cities. At HSBC, we are committed to helping communities and along with our implementing partners, we are proud to play a part in water stewardship to make a tangible difference in the lives of people by providing them with readily available clean and safe drinking water.”
Shri George Aikara, CEO-UWM said, “United Way Mumbai is privileged to be part of this initiative to establish water kiosks and provide clean and safe drinking water through a sustainable solution. Through this project, we aim to address water scarcity for our communities in need and contribute to their well-being.”
Shri Sahil Arora, CEO-TSL said “TSL is proud to partner with HSBC India and UWM on this noble initiative. We are deeply committed to the well-being of our communities, especially during the scorching summer months. By installing free water kiosks in underprivileged areas, we aim to provide essential relief and ensure access to clean, safe drinking water for those who need it the most. This initiative reflects our dedication to fostering health, dignity, and resilience in every community we serve.
