•  Only half of the wastewater in the urban areas of Pakistan is disposed off through underground or covered drains. The remainder is discharged through open drains into waterways, or fasces are dumped directly onto the roadside or mixed with solid waste for disposal.

•  In the katchi abadis (informal settlements of the poor), practically all the wastewater is disposed off to the nearest open space, where most likely the household poultry and other animals also feed.

The Outcomes

•  Poor people In Pakistan are more prone to adverse health impact because of their inadequate nutrition, unhygienic living conditions, lack of access to health facilities, and greater exposure to polluted water.