Bibliometric Perspectives on Sustainable Financing for operation and maintenance of Rural Water Scheme

Abstract

This paper conducts a bibliometric analysis of sustainable financing for the operation and maintenance of rural water schemes. Recognizing the complexities inherent in financial management of such schemes—encompassing social, economic, technical, and environmental factors—the study analyzes the existing body of literature to map research trends and identify gaps. The study employs bibliographic coupling to review 409 relevant contributions retrieved from Scopus database, with a focus on sustainability, community management, and technical challenges. Six key thematic clusters emerged, highlighting issues such as demand-driven community management, operation and maintenance financing, and socio-ecological impacts. The analysis provides insights into the evolving understanding of rural water schemes and suggests the need for better integration of institutional, environmental, and financial strategies to enhance long-term sustainability in context of climate change. Recommendations include shifting from isolated schemes to networked systems and fostering stronger external support mechanisms to overcome operational challenges.