Stichting Connect International

People make hand dug wells since far back in history. They dig until they find water. A hand dug well normally has a diameter of 0.8 up to 1.5 meter and varies in depth, depending on how deep water is found. When using a ventilator for fresh air during digging, it becomes even possible to dig down to 30 meter or more. A hand dug well can be made in hard soils as well as in soft soils. The soil structure and water level determines how to support the walls.

The quality of the water taken from hand dug wells varies, improving substantially if it the well is properly lined inside and has a cover on top. These simple improvements prevent waste water from flowing back directly into the well, collapsing of the shaft, pollution by debris, animals and even from people falling in!

This manual explains how to make a proper well. But we recommend that you have the people who you want to start digging wells be trained properly. Also it is important to first assess in your area whether well digging is feasible. You can contact us if you need such services (training in well digging, feasibility assessment).