Many rural communities in Pakistan lack the most basic infrastructure required for water harvesting, storage and delivery. They also lack the means of linking their communities with markets and health and education services. Roads, bridges, sewage disposal systems and drainage systems are always amongst the top priorities identified by community members.

Once communities identify the need for a physical infrastructure scheme NRSP's Physical Infrastructure and Technology Development section carries out feasibility studies relating to technical, financial and environmental aspects of the proposed scheme. The aim is to ensure that communities will be able to meet their commitments of resources and assume responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the schemes. It is also necessary to ensure minimal environmental impacts. Social Organisers work with community members to make sure they have the financial and managerial resources to implement and maintain the scheme. In all of these schemes, community members contribute at least 20% of the cost, and assume responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the schemes.

PITD engineers have helped communities to construct ponds, reservoirs and wells, to line watercourses so that losses are minimized, to install lift irrigation schemes where these are technically feasible, to rehabilitate community-operated karezes in Balochistan, and to build water storage and flood protection bunds. PITD engineers also built roads linking remote villages to main roads. This latter activity brings economic and social opportunities to communities: people pay less for goods and services, opportunities to market their farm and other produce are greatly expanded and their access to medical care is increased. Opportunities to attend school and to find employment are also increased.

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