Analysis of Water Supply and Sewage Services in Pau dos Ferros–RN in Light of the Municipal Basic Sanitation Plan

Objective: This study aims to conduct a critical diagnosis of the provision of water supply and sanitation services in the municipality of Pau dos Ferros/RN, following the approval of the Municipal Basic Sanitation Plan (PMSB), in order to understand the progress and ongoing challenges in the implementation of these services. Theoretical Framework: This section presents the main concepts and theories underpinning the research. Key contributions include the works of Miranda et al. (2024), Leite and Alves (2024), Fernandes and Felipe (2022), and Silva Júnior et al. (2022), who discuss water resource management, inequalities in access to sanitation, and the social and environmental impacts of service deficiencies, providing a solid basis for critical analysis of the local context. Method: The research adopts a qualitative-quantitative approach, with an exploratory and descriptive design. Data were collected from secondary sources such as SINISA, IBGE, EMPARN, and the PMSB of Pau dos Ferros/RN, focusing on selected indicators related to water and sewage services. Results and Discussion: The results reveal that, although there have been advances in expanding water supply and sewage networks, significant challenges remain, such as territorial inequality in access, intermittent supply, and low sewage service coverage, especially in peripheral and rural areas. These findings are discussed in light of the theoretical framework, emphasizing the need for more effective public policies and community participation in achieving universal access. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this study provide important insights for improving local public sanitation policies, contributing to the development of strategies that promote equity and sustainability in service provision. Affected areas include municipal management, regulatory agencies, and especially vulnerable communities in the semi-arid region. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by offering a localized and critical analysis of basic sanitation services in a semi-arid Brazilian municipality, highlighting the gap between formal planning and actual implementation. Its relevance lies in reinforcing sanitation as a fundamental right, essential to public health and the population’s quality of life.