Nalbari, Assam, January 25, 2024: FMCG major Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Private Limited (HCCB), launched a Drinking Water ATM in partnership with Y4D foundation at the Natya Mandir premises in Nalbari, Assam. The Drinking Water ATM was inaugurated by Shri. Jayanta Mallabaruah, Hon'ble Minister of PHED, SEED & Tourism, Assam along with Smt. Varnali Deka, IAS, District Commissioner of Nalbari district. Key representatives from the local government including the Chairman of the Nalbari Municipal Board, and the Chairman of the corresponding Zila Parishad were present at the event.
The Drinking Water ATM will provide clean drinking water to nearly 4000 people in the community. The initiative is in line with the company's larger commitment towards sustainable water security for the local communities and regional empowerment efforts.
Speaking at the inauguration, Smt. Varnali Deka, IAS, District Commissioner of Nalbari district, Assam said, “We are happy to have HCCB actively enabling access to safe and clean water for the local community of Nalbari. This development impacts thousands of people and paves the way to positive change in the region. The Water ATM will bring succour to more than 150 shops and commercial establishments, 50 street vendors in the immediate vicinity, besides providing water to attendees of all the events at the frequently used Natya Mandir with a capacity of 500 people.”
Mr. Himanshu Priyadarshi, Chief Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability Officer, HCCB, said, “At Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages, we recognise the need for community empowerment and the challenges encountered in accessing safe, clean drinking water. The introduction of Drinking Water ATM in the Nalbari district marks an important step towards addressing this need. The initiative aligns with our larger vision to foster community welfare and contributes towards ensuring access to water and sanitation for all."
HCCB has been working towards empowering women and the community at Assam. The organization has upskilled 400+ women in digital and financial literacy, and equipped the school in the region with a digital smartbaord. Further, to boost employability, it is also planning to provide bee farming training and equipment for 20 women at Nalbari. The bee farming box being provided can yield 12-15 kgs of honey per box, thereby promoting economic welfare of these women.
