Abstract

CHAVEZ VALDEZ, Manuel; RIVERA HERREJON, Gladys; ROMERO CONTRERAS, Tonatiuh  and  VIZCARRA BORDI, Ivonne. Wells: usage, safety and tradition in San Javier subbasin. Estud. soc [online]. 2013, vol.21, n.41, pp.261-286. ISSN 0188-4557.

The objective of the research was to study the role of traditional wells in water supply for the rural population, vis a vis drinking water networks in five rural low-income villages in the west of the State of Mexico. The information was obtained through field trips and interviews with key informants and users. It was found that in most of the villages, wells are the main source of water for domestic use and they greatly help to solve the serious crisis of lack of water arising from the dysfunctional drinking water networks. While wells are a family heritage, they play a wider social role because they are shared with neighbors free of charge. In addition, the costs of the construction of wells, their operation, and the required technology are within reach of the poor rural families. In conclusion, wells are decisively contributing in the area to provide security in the water supply during the year.

Keywords : water; traditional wells; rural areas; use and management.

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