An Inclusive Community Based Water Purification and Monitoring System for the Base of the Pyramid

India, like most developing countries, is facing a water crisis, due to its ever-increasing population, rapid industrialisation and other economic activities (e.g. agriculture, animal husbandry, etc.). It's not only the cities but the suburbs and villages too, that are often affected by the scarcity and contamination of water resources, exacting a heavy toll on public health. This paper seeks to develop an affordable community based water purification and monitoring system which ensures accessibility to clean drinking water for the base-of-the-pyramid (BOP). A design proposal was developed using specific design methodologies involving morphological matrix, brainstorming sessions and systemic design approach to provide a sustainable and inclusive filtration solution using solar energy. Moreover, a simplified life cycle study was performed on the proposed purification system to assess the sustainability of the system concerning the social, economic and environmental aspects. The proposed purification system, based on active community participation, reduces the water poverty and fulfils the sustainable development goals (SDGs) related to the provision of clean water and renewable energy, which ultimately aids the communities at the base-of-the-pyramid.