Water for All: A Strategic Assessment of Drinking Water Management at Cox's Bazar of Bangladesh in the Light of SDGs

ABSTRACT Access to safe water is a fundamental human right, yet coastal cities like Cox's Bazar face severe insecurity due to rapid urbanization, salinity, and the Rohingya refugee influx. Despite its urgency, a research gap exists in aligning local governance with specific Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets in humanitarian contexts. This study evaluates the alignment of water management with 20 SDG targets using a mixed‐methods approach, integrating household surveys ( n = 384), focus group discussions ( n = 6), relevant expert interviews ( n = 20) and case studies respectively. Statistical reliability was confirmed through Cronbach's alpha (> 0.9) and Kendall's coefficient of concordance ( W = 0.21, χ 2 = 52.13, p < 0.001). Findings showed strong consensus on climate action and urban resilience (Goals 13 and 11) but weak alignment in water quality, governance, and access. A daily municipal water deficit of 19.47 million liters was identified. The study highlights the need for climate‐resilient infrastructure, Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), and inclusive, community‐led governance to ensure equitable water access and advance SDG 6 in Cox's Bazar.