Hawk’s eyes on water sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services in rural Punjab

Abstract

Access to safe water, adequate sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) is essential for public health. However, rural areas of Punjab continue to face significant challenges in WASH service delivery. This study uses an interdisciplinary approach to analyze the structural, behavioral, and institutional factors that contribute to WASH-related vulnerabilities in rural Punjab. Grounded in the Social Determinants of Health Framework, the Ecological Model of Health Behavior, and Governance and Policy Implementation Theory, the research investigates how socio-economic disparities, community norms, and governance inefficiencies collectively affect health outcomes and the effectiveness of WASH interventions. The findings reveal that WASH inequities are closely tied to poverty, gender disparities, education levels, and institutional fragmentation. The study emphasizes the need for integrated, equity-focused policies that go beyond infrastructure provision to include behavior change strategies, strengthened local governance, and increased community participation. Ultimately, the research calls for a comprehensive, multi-level policy response to enhance WASH services as a critical public health and development priority in rural Punjab.