Rural areas in Maharashtra can now access clean drinking water at a nearby ATM outlet, thanks to ‘Jal Jeevan’, an initiative launched by Deeya Shroff, a class XI student in Mumbai. Deeya speaks about the project and why she pursued it so relentlessly, in an interview:

Q What is a water ATM? How does it work? This initiative helps people in rural India gain access to clean drinking water. The water ATM is attached to a reverse osmosis system that filters and cleans the water through multiple processes such as an activated carbon filter, sand filter, pH solution, reverse osmosis as well as UV rays. The water is collected in a storage tank and sold at the rate of `5 for 20 litres.  Each ATM serves around 300 families (1,200-1,500 people). Every family is given an ATM card – every two or three days, they are entitled to get 20 litres of water. The water is used for cooking and drinking.The profits made over four to five years are collected by the local cooperative – it helps them reinvest the amount for a new ATM.

Q How did this idea originate? I wanted to do something for society. It had to be a project that was sustainable, financially viable and could be handed over to the local cooperative once it was set up. After much research, I came across the idea of setting up water ATMs. I discovered that waterborne diseases alone kill 1,600-odd people every day in India. This needed to be checked. I decided to help people gain access to something that is a basic necessity – water.

Q Did you face any hurdles? Not at all. The sponsors and various sanctioning authorities were very keen and receptive to this idea. I managed to get permission through follow-ups with various authorities concerned. 

Q How do you ensure that water ATMs are safe for drinking? The ATM is attached to a Reverse Osmosis water purification system which is a leader in the water purification business. I went through the details very meticulously. Apart from the main reverse osmosis purification system, it has several other steps including carbon and sand filters, pH regulators and UV light to clean the water. Each ATM has a purification system that is uniquely developed based on the treatment required for the water in the specific area where the ATM has been set up. There is a pre- and post-testing and certification done by a renowned laboratory. We also that monthly servicing is done to ensure the water is pure.

Q How has this campaign changed you? It has taught me a lot. This journey has truly made me believe that small steps, passion and hard work can help you achieve anything. People have been so positive that I am encouraged to set up more and more ATMs. Most importantly, the experience has taught me to value most the mere basic amenities  of life— like water — which we unfortunately take for granted.

Q How can teens ensure that their voice is heard and make an impact on society? The biggest tool today is social media definitely. There are a lot of blogs and websites that allow and encourage teenagers like me to make an impact for everyone and be heard. The media today is extremely responsive – this helps us to make a difference as well as be recognised for the work we are doing. People are much more aware – if social media is used for the right things it can be a boon for teenagers.

Q What do you plan to do next? I have got funding for three more ATMs, for which I have already made applications to various authorities. I hope to set up more water ATMs in the future across India. 

The Water ATM

• The first water ATM which is already operational in Solapur in Maharashtra, caters to approximately 300 families residing in the area. Earlier they had to walk for miles to source clean drinking water.
• The first water ATM was inaugurated in January this year, after Deeya managed to raise an amount of Rs 15 lakh by reaching out to individuals and government officials. She also had to convince the municipal commission to get permission for the proposed ATM site 

• Deeya was awarded a gold medal recently at the 6th annual Pramerica Spirit of Community Awards programme for her "extraordinary" contribution to community service. 
• The awards, launched in 2009, are a school-level recognition programme for volunteer community service with an objective to encourage the efforts of school children currently engaged in voluntary community service.