BDWI – Completion of Renovation and Looking Forward
Renovation on BDWI’s first distribution center is nearing completion. The renovation has taken longer than expected, but the result has been worthwhile. The building has gone from a defunct shack to an acceptable storefront. I have also managed to secure a charity classified three phase power connection from the Jhunjhunu district government. The infrastructure is now in place. All that remains is installation and inauguration of the plant which is tentatively scheduled for the 23rd.
With the plant installed and up and running, my biggest challenge is reaching full capacity quickly. Reaching capacity will go a long ways towards proving that the model is sustainable, socially beneficial and good investment for prospective entrepreneurs. This will facilitate the spread of BDWI throughout Jhunjhunu and hopefully India.
My deadline for reaching full capacity on the first plant (6000L/day or 300 families) is February 15th. While there is already a buzz about this project in Bagar, converting this buzz into regular clientele is going to be challenging. I first plan to establish a method of delivering the water into communal areas such as the markets. Establishing a regular presence in the markets and other high traffic areas will expose the community to our services and result in a significant number of clients. Additionally, I plan to supplement delivery services with a town wide campaign to educate Bagar about the benefits of drinking clean water. This will involve leveraging our relationships with community leaders to pass out informational packets and to hold informal meetings. Being aggressive is going to be the key. If I am aggressive, I am confident that I will meet and beat the February 15th deadline.