Examining the Perceived Effectiveness of Water Service Delivery at the Union Parishad Level in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Study of Citizens’ Perspectives

Authors

  • Md. Ariful Islam Rubel Stamford University Bangladesh image/svg+xml Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65496/jssme.2026.85

Keywords:

Union Parishad, Water Service Delivery, Citizen Perception, Local Governance, Equity, Institutional Trust

Abstract

Water service delivery in rural Bangladesh is shaped not only by infrastructure availability but also by local governance practices, institutional responsiveness, and social relations. This study examines citizens’ perceived effectiveness of water service delivery at the Union Parishad level in Bangladesh. Using an exploratory qualitative design, both primary and secondary data were used to conduct the study. Primary data were collected through 20 in-depth interviews, 6 focus group discussions from citizens, and 10 key informant interviews from chairmen and members across six unions in three upazilas. Deductive thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the data following six analytical dimensions: accessibility, adequacy, reliability, responsiveness, equity, and affordability. The findings show a clear gap between institutional claims and citizen experiences. While Union Parishad representatives emphasized infrastructure expansion and service initiatives, citizens reported uneven access, inadequate coverage, unreliable supply, weak responsiveness, hidden costs, and loyalty-based allocation. Equity emerged as the most critical dimension, as patron-client relationships and informal networks often shaped access to water services. The study argues that rural water service delivery is not only a technical issue but also a governance problem. Strengthening transparent beneficiary selection, grievance redress system, community monitoring, and need-based allocation is essential for improving service effectiveness and rebuilding citizen trust.

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Published

2026-05-05

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Vol. 2 No. 1 (2026)

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How to Cite

Rubel, M. A. I. (2026). Examining the Perceived Effectiveness of Water Service Delivery at the Union Parishad Level in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Study of Citizens’ Perspectives. Journal of Social Science and Multidisciplinary Enquiry, 2(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.65496/jssme.2026.85

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