Hydronarratives: The Confluence of Water and Environmental Justice

Ongoing Challenges and Recovery Efforts

Flint has undergone some transformations in the replacement of lead pipes however the rate at which the change is being adopted has not been satisfactory. Reflecting on the city to the year 2022, the city has been able to replace more than 97% of lead and galvanized steel service lines (Willy, 2023). This massive infrastructure work which started in 2016 has been a great step to address the source cause of water pollution. However, the process has not been without some challenges some of which are; funding, logistical issues and the challenges that come with the identification of homes with LSL. The time is again and again set for the replacements to be made and these are indications that it is difficult to replace decaying structures in urban regions. However, the pipe replacement program is a realistic step to prevent the material losses that the crisis inflicted on Flint and its residents and to provide access to clean water.
Flint’s current water quality status has changed for the better, however, the people still have fear and doubts as to the quality of water they are using. Current reports on water quality reveal that lead content in Flint's water has been below the federal requirements since 2016 (Hill, 2022). This has led to the city enforcing more strict testing methods as well as treatment procedures for water. Nonetheless, most people have not changed their minds and still do not believe the information from the authorities, using bottled water or having a water filtration system at home. This constant scepticism is a clear indication that the effects of the crisis are not only long-lasting but also run deep. This is a continuous problem that the city still struggles with not only providing safe water that is fit for use but also convincing the people to use it. Testing on a regular basis, reporting on the results of the tests, and increasing community involvement are key aspects in the process of regaining the people’s confidence in the water system.
Flint has received support from community-based programs and support programs that have been very instrumental in the recovery process. Independent and other national organizations have come to assist the residents by providing them with support and other essentials that they require. These range from offering bottled water and filters and offering health checks and education to children who have been affected by lead poisoning. The Flint Registry was established in 2018 and is intended to be a catalogue of services for people and a record of the impact of the disaster on their health for decades to come (Magazine & Riley, 2024). Other processes have also included mobilisation, where the people of Flint actively participated in expressing their opinions on the matters of concern so far and the necessary changes to implement.

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