Dry season occurs from November to April with an average rainfall of 34 millimeters per month, this can lead to severe water shortages in communities. In rural villages it is common for the main household water supply to be sourced from collected rainwater as there is little access to running water. Villagers are highly dependent on rainwater catchments for their water consumption.

HAC supports 525 community members across 5 villages in Aek Phnum district of Battambang by providing portable ceramic water purifying filters. The household members received training for maintenance and use of the filters. During severe floods, the filters are placed in a high position above the floodwater levels so that households could still access safe and clean drinking water.

In the flood-prone Aek Phnum district of Battambang, HAC provides poor households with cement water tanks that hold enough water for a household of eight members to use over four months. The water tank devices were built with strong materials on high ground and remained undamaged and contamination-free during flood periods.

From 2012, HAC has supported the renovation of large public water ponds across Battambang and Banteay Meanchey Provinces. The water ponds hold mass rainwater catchments during wet season (May to October) to supply water to local villagers. Each Older People’s Association manages and maintains the pond’s condition and safe use. Some OPA’s have raised funds within their village to build steps and a platform to access the water, and a fence to keep animals away from the pond.