USPCASW Seminar Highlights: PAUL Filter Technology for Drinking Water Treatment

𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 & 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀: Distinguished guests, including Prof. Dr Rasool Bux Mahar, Vice-Chancellor (BBSUTSD), Mr. Anis Danish (Chief Services Executive, HANDS), Dr. Sonke Widderrich (MEDICO International), and Dr. Frenchen (Founder, PAUL filter technology), convened at a seminar dedicated to the research and development of the PAUL (Portable Aqua Unit for Lifesaving) Filter Technology for Drinking Water. The collaboration between HANDS and Medico International brought this innovative technology to fruition, aiming to provide clean water in emergencies and permanent supply situations.

𝗣𝗔𝗨𝗟’𝘀 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆: Since its inaugural deployment during the devastating floods in Pakistan in 2010, the PAUL filter has earned accolades, including the Greentech Award in 2016 and the Aqua Award in 2017. Prof. Dr Frenchen, the mind behind PAUL, was honoured with the Melvin Jones Fellow by the Lions Club International Foundation in 2019. With over 350 successful installations in Pakistan and a global reach spanning 90+ countries, the technology continues to evolve through relentless research and development efforts.

𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 & 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀: Mr. Ameer Keerio emphasized the impactful collaboration between HANDS and Medico International. Focusing on fostering partnerships, he highlighted shared initiatives and synergies driving positive change. Both organizations’ commitment to addressing healthcare challenges globally was a recurring theme, showcasing the potential of collaborative efforts in community well-being.

𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗔𝗨𝗟 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆: Dr. Frenchen’s detailed presentation delved into the intricate workings of the PAUL filter. With 350 units in Pakistan and installations in 90+ countries globally, the technology’s adaptability in disasters and emergencies was underscored. Dr. Frenchen emphasized ongoing research efforts, reflecting an unwavering commitment to refining PAUL filter technology to benefit communities worldwide.

𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝘁 𝗨𝗦𝗣𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗪: Dr Mahar provided a comprehensive overview of research conducted at USPCASW, explicitly focusing on arsenic removal through electrocoagulation and PAUL filtration. The outcomes highlighted the potential of this combined approach in addressing water quality challenges, showcasing USPCASW’s commitment to advancing PAUL filter technology for enhanced water treatment solutions.

The interactive Q&A and panel discussion were conducted by Dr Tanveer Ahmed (USPCAS-W), and the seminar concluded with insightful remarks from Dr Mahar. Summarizing key takeaways, he emphasized the significance of shared knowledge in advancing water treatment solutions. The event served as a testament to the collaborative efforts shaping a sustainable future through innovative technologies.