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Hand & Low-Tech Lift Pumps

Rope Pump

Hand pumps provide water access for hundreds of millions of rural residents across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

1. Afridev Hand Pump

  • Standard: Standardized by SKAT / RWSN for Village Level Operation and Maintenance (VLOM).
  • Depth: 10m to 45m.
  • Maintenance: Plunger and foot valve can be extracted through the rising main using simple hand tools without lifting the casing pipes.

2. India Mark II & Mark III

  • Standard: UNICEF & Bureau of Indian Standards.
  • Depth: Up to 70m (Deep Well configuration).
  • Structure: Galvanized steel head with counterweighted handle; highly vandal-resistant.

3. Rope Pump

  • Design: Continuous loop of rope with rubber/plastic pistons traveling up a snug PVC pipe.
  • Local Production: 100% locally produced using recycled car tires, bicycle hubs, and PVC pipes. Costs ~$70–$120 USD.