
MAY 2025 | Chair’s Message
March was an extraordinary month for the World Plumbing Council and the global plumbing industry as a whole. With the celebration of World Plumbing Day, our WPC General Meeting, and the incredible ISH 2025 Show, it’s difficult to know where to begin.
The ISH Trade Fair, organized by Messe Frankfurt, in Frankfurt, Germany — held from 15–19 March — was a standout event. Held biennially, ISH is one of the world’s leading showcases for innovative solutions in building services, energy, and water technologies. If you weren’t able to attend this year, you truly missed something special. The energy at the WPC booth was electric, and the content and programming were second to none. ISH 2025 brought together industry professionals from around the globe to showcase the latest technologies and products focused on sustainable energy use, smart building solutions, and modern bathroom design. The event remains an essential platform for global networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, drawing architects, engineers, designers, and industry leaders to discuss trends, challenges, and advancements in the built environment. I strongly encourage anyone in our field to plan ahead for the next ISH Frankfurt in March, 2027.
This year, the WPC played a central role in the overall success of ISH Frankfurt 2025. A significant milestone during the event was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Messe Frankfurt and the WPC, symbolizing a strengthened partnership focused on promoting sustainable plumbing technologies, sharing global best practices, and supporting workforce development across the sector. In recognition of this collaboration, Messe Frankfurt presented a special award to the WPC during the MoU signing ceremony — a gesture of appreciation for the council’s long-standing engagement. I was truly humbled to accept this award on behalf of the WPC.
A major highlight of ISH 2025 was the Value of Water Conference, which was held for the first time as an independent format within the show. Organized in partnership with Euroforum and aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 6, the conference focused on access to clean water and safe sanitation. As chair of the WPC, I had the privilege of participating in this important gathering, which convened industry experts, policymakers, and researchers to discuss practical solutions for water scarcity, efficiency, and sustainability. I was honored to contribute to the discussions and to represent the WPC in advancing the global dialogue on water resilience and sanitation access.
The International Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Foundation (IWSH) once again showcased the importance of skilled plumbing professionals through its Plumbing Champions program. Headlining as part of the new ‘ISH Festival’ at ISH Frankfurt 2025, the program featured hands-on demonstrations, training activities, and a real-world renovation project that highlighted the innovation and dedication of emerging plumbing professionals. In this newsletter, you’ll read more detail on all those who participated and supported this incredible program, but I do want to give a very special thank you to several We were also delighted to welcome team members from TVET partners in France and Spain; a direct outcome of WPC’s ongoing partnership with WorldSkills.
The installations created during the event were donated to a local community arts center in Frankfurt, reinforcing the program’s commitment to social responsibility and community support.
The WPC General Meeting, held in conjunction with ISH, was well attended by representatives from 12 countries. It was inspiring to reconnect with long-time members like Gurmit Singh Arora, national president of the Indian Plumbing Association, and to welcome new faces into the fold. A few developments emerged from the meeting, including the introduction of two new membership categories — Industry and Honorary — with more details to be shared soon.
We also announced the renaming of the WPC’s Distinguished Service Award in honor of the late Geoffrey Marsh, who was its first recipient in 2005. This award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions toward uniting the global plumbing industry to protect health and the environment. Marsh was exemplary of the criteria of the award, and the board felt it fitting to change the title to his name in recognition of his enduring legacy.
The meeting also featured a number of insightful presentations, including an important update from WHO Technical Officer Bonifacio “Boni” Magtibay on the Plumbing for Health Program in the Philippines — a collaborative initiative between the WHO and the WPC. We are grateful to Boni and all our presenters for sharing their expertise and advancing the global conversation around plumbing and public health. Copies of the presentations, along with the meeting minutes, will be available soon on the WPC website.
A sincere thank you goes to Gaby Davis, Seán Kearney, Elmar Esser, Leticia Gallegos, and Grant Stewart for your dedication in organizing the meeting. Your hard work made it a great success.
I would also like to extend our deepest thanks to Johannes Möller, group show director of Building Technologies Shows; Stefan Seitz, Katharina Groh, and the entire ISH/Messe Frankfurt team for their warm hospitality, plus Peter Paul Thoma, Christof Hahn, Josef Bock and Julian Bock for their fantastic co-ordination of the Plumbing Champions program.
Lastly, World Plumbing Day 2025 was another proud moment for our community. New WPC content helped raise awareness, and we were thrilled by the widespread support and participation. Thank you to everyone who contributed — your efforts are helping elevate the vital role of plumbing professionals in protecting global health. We invite you to explore the photos and highlights from the celebrations featured in this edition.
The momentum of the past months has been truly energizing. There’s still much work to be done, and we look forward to what lies ahead. Until our next update — stay safe, stay engaged, and thank you for your continued support.
Warm regards,
Dave Viola
Chair, World Plumbing Council
IN THIS ISSUE:
IWSH Plumbing Champions Make a Real-World Impact at ISH Frankfurt 2025
World Plumbing Day Celebrations From Around the Globe
ISH 2025: Driving Innovation and Sustainability in the Global Plumbing Sector
PMI Begins Effort to Curb Online Sales of Counterfeit Plumbing Products
CIPHE’s Commitment to Skills, Education, and Professional Development
The Global Plumbing Industry: Trends, Challenges, and Future Developments
Building Toilets for Millions at the World’s Largest Gathering: Kumbh 2025
Attendees at the WPC General Meeting
Left: (From left to right) Will Schwarz, United Association Canada; Mike Gordon, United Association Canada; Tom Bigley, WPC Executive Board and United Association; Jeremy Diaz, Plumbers Local 78, IAPMO Board of Directors. Right: (From left) Dave Viola, WPC Chair; Peter Paul Thoma, Innung Sanitar Heizung Klima Frankfurt; Johannes Moller, Messe Frankfurt.
Left: (Left to right) Dave Viola: Satinder Chera, Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating; Gaby Davis; Kevin Wellman, Deputy Chair of WPC. Right: WPC Chair Dave Viola address the audience at the ISH Festival.
The WPC secretariat team and the leadership of the Indian Plumbing Association (IPA), long standing members of the WPC.
IWSH Plumbing Champions Make a Real-World Impact at ISH Frankfurt 2025
The IWSH team just returned from ISH Frankfurt 2025, where its IWSH Plumbing Champions transformed a high-profile trade show demonstration into real-world impact. Over five action-packed days, more than 20 young tradespeople from eight different countries — representing various WPC member organizations — collaborated to install plumbing and heating systems in a downtown Frankfurt art center. This live demonstration didn’t just showcase talent — it resulted in the complete renovation of long-disused washroom facilities at the historic Kulturwerkstatt Germaniastraße, creating clean, accessible spaces for the local community to use and enjoy.
The IWSH Plumbing Champions initiative built on the momentum of our successful ISH Frankfurt 2023 pilot. This year, the program helped launch the new ISH Festival, welcoming young tradespeople from around the world to experience the synergy of innovation, education, and excitement. Alongside the Champions workshop area, the ISH Festival also featured a Creator Stage, where popular content creators shared their passion for the plumbing trade — live, authentic, and full of energy.
A skills development and capacity-building program presented in partnership with the WPC at high-profile events, trade fairs, and skills competitions, IWSH Plumbing Champions highlights the essential role of plumbing professionals as champions of public health and resource conservation. Through hands-on installation projects and industry showcases, the program transforms perceptions of the trade while making a tangible impact in local communities.
Waggong e.V., which oversees the arts center, has been active in Frankfurt’s independent cultural scene for more than 30 years, with an extensive and innovative musical training program at the heart of its work. The organization supports funding opportunities for local musicians and cultural groups from other sectors. Originally built as a neighborhood air raid shelter during World War 2, the Kulturwerkstatt Germaniastraße building has served formally and informally as offices, rehearsal rooms, apartments, a daycare center, a printing shop, and even a cinema (cinema seats were only recently removed).
“Today, under Waggong management and with support from the city of Frankfurt, about 1,500 musicians and other cultural workers benefit from the center’s offerings,” said Katrin Zurborg of the Waggong e.V. management team. “The [new bathroom] improvements will allow Waggong to host larger events and provide better facilities for its growing membership.”
“IWSH Plumbing Champions demonstrates the IWSH success equation in action: well-planned projects + skilled plumbers + quality products + community training = scalable and measurable change,” said Dave Viola, IAPMO CEO and 2025 World Plumbing Council chair.
This initiative didn’t just renovate a building — it helped redefine what plumbing can mean to a community. It showcased a career pathway full of purpose, innovation, and global connectivity. By engaging the next generation and fostering international teamwork, IWSH is proving that plumbing — done right — protects public health, sparks careers, and strengthens communities.
Follow along: @IWSHFoundation #IWSHPlumbingChampions
World Plumbing Day Celebrations From Around the Globe

The WPC was thrilled by the industry’s enthusiastic response to this year’s World Plumbing Day — it may have been our most successful celebration yet. Thank you to all our members who helped promote the day and to those who shared their participation through the wonderful images and recaps featured in the link below.
ISH 2025: Driving Innovation and Sustainability in the Global Plumbing Sector

With 163,157 visitors from 150 countries, ISH 2025 once again reaffirmed its status as the world’s leading trade fair for HVAC and Water. From 17 to 21 March, the exhibition grounds in Frankfurt became the global meeting place for the building technology sector. Under the guiding theme “Solutions for a Sustainable Future”, the event brought together professionals, innovators and decision-makers to explore pioneering solutions in heating, air-conditioning, water management and sanitation.
A strong focus was placed on sustainable water use and digital innovation, highlighting the building sector’s growing role in addressing global environmental challenges. From highly efficient ventilation systems and eco-friendly heat generation to intelligent water management and contemporary bathroom design – ISH 2025 provided a comprehensive showcase of forward-looking technologies that are shaping the future of our industry.
Spotlight on Water: The Value of Water Conference
A key highlight of this year’s edition was the Value of Water Conference, held for the first time as an independent format within ISH. In partnership with Euroforum and aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal #6, the conference addressed access to clean water and safe sanitation. Industry experts, policymakers and researchers discussed concrete solutions for water scarcity, efficiency and sustainability. Recordings of the presentations will soon be available here: Presentations | Building Technologies.
WPC Partnership and World Plumbing Championship
The WPC played a central role in the success of ISH 2025. A highlight was the World Plumbing Championship, where young talents demonstrated their skills and commitment. The competition combined technical excellence with social responsibility — the installations created were donated to a local social institution in Frankfurt, supporting the community while showcasing the importance of skilled trades.
In addition, show organizer Messe Frankfurt and the World Plumbing Council took an important step forward by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement marks the renewal of a strengthened 20-year collaboration aimed at promoting sustainable plumbing technologies, sharing international best practices, and supporting talent development across the sector.
A Sincere Thank You to the WPC
On behalf of Messe Frankfurt and the entire ISH team, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the World Plumbing Council for its outstanding partnership, engagement and commitment. In particular, we thank David Viola, Chair of the WPC, for his active participation in the Value of Water Conference and for representing the WPC during key discussions. His contributions enriched the dialogue around global water sustainability and reflected the shared values of our organisations.
As a symbol of appreciation, ISH presented a special award to the WPC during the MOU signing ceremony – a gesture to honour the Council’s long-standing support and collaboration.
Looking Ahead
ISH 2025 was not only a platform for showcasing innovation but also for building meaningful connections and shaping the future of our industry together. With strong international participation and outstanding feedback from visitors, the event clearly demonstrated that the transformation of the plumbing and building technology sector is well underway – powered by cooperation, technology and a shared global vision.
We look forward to continuing this journey with the World Plumbing Council and to welcoming the global plumbing community again at ISH 2027, taking place from 15 to 19 March 2027 in Frankfurt am Main.
PMI Begins Effort to Curb Online Sales of Counterfeit Plumbing Products
Submitted by Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI)
Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI) has started an effort to curb online sales of counterfeit and contraband plumbing products through a campaign that so far has included a news release, video, trade publication article, and social media posts.
“Plumbing manufacturers have invested millions of dollars and thousands of hours to produce high-performing toilets, showerheads and faucets that comply with federal, state and local health and safety standards,” Stackpole said. “Counterfeit and noncertified contraband products typically perform poorly and present health and safety risks — thereby endangering Americans and their families while eroding customers’ trust in the brands PMI members have worked so hard to build.”
PMI encourages the entire plumbing community to spread awareness of the inadequacies of counterfeit and contraband plumbing products and to encourage the purchase of high-quality, certified toilets, showerheads, faucets, and more.
CIPHE’s Commitment to Skills, Education, and Professional Development
Submitted by The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE)
The Plumbing and Heating industry in the UK is at a critical crossroads, facing both a growing skills gap and the challenge of transitioning to net zero. The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) remains committed to advancing education, apprenticeships, and professional development to ensure excellence within the industry. The UK faces a severe skills shortage, with estimates suggesting that the country will require 70,000 additional plumbing professionals by 2032, highlighting the urgency for high-quality training and continued professional growth.
The Plumbing Professionals Development Scheme (PPDS): A Pathway to Excellence
In response to the demand for structured career progression, CIPHE, in collaboration with The Worshipful Company of Plumbers (WCP), has introduced the Plumbing Professionals Development Scheme (PPDS). This initiative provides a framework for individuals at various career stages, ensuring they benefit from professional development support.
The PPDS includes:
Continuing Professional Development (CPD): A structured learning programme enhancing skills and knowledge throughout a plumber’s career.
Mentorship Opportunities: Guidance from experienced professionals to nurture the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with industry leaders, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Recognition and Accreditation: Acknowledgement of technical expertise and commitment to professionalism.
The PPDS is more than just a training program—it’s a commitment to the future of plumbing and heating. By empowering young professionals with the skills, mentorship, and opportunities they need, PPDS is shaping the next generation of leaders in an ever-evolving industry.
Strengthening the Industry through Education
CIPHE’s dedication to education and training extends to the recent approval to develop the new apprenticeship standards, aiming to equip apprentices with essential skills needed to meet industry demands, including:
Installation and maintenance of hot and cold water systems.
Sustainable water management and sanitation.
Specialisation in low-carbon heating and gas engineering.
These advancements in training foster professionalism and expertise, reinforcing CIPHE’s mission to set a benchmark for quality within the plumbing and heating sector.
The 2025-2027 CIPHE Manifesto highlights the importance of investing in education and development to build a resilient, skilled workforce. Through initiatives like the PPDS and new apprenticeship standards, the CIPHE is focused on ensuring that plumbing and heating professionals are prepared to meet the challenges ahead. Prioritising skills development now is essential for securing a sustainable and highly skilled workforce for tomorrow.
To learn more about CIPHE and its initiatives, visit www.ciphe.org.uk and explore how you can get involved in shaping the future of the plumbing and heating industry.
The Global Plumbing Industry: Trends, Challenges, and Future Developments
Submitted by Simhadri Enterprises Pvt ltd
The plumbing industry has long been considered an essential part of modern infrastructure. With the continued growth of urbanization, advancements in technology, and the ongoing need for sustainability, plumbing professionals worldwide are facing new opportunities, challenges, and responsibilities. This article will explore some of the most significant trends, challenges, and innovations in the global plumbing community, along with key industry insights that are shaping the future of plumbing worldwide.
- Sustainability and Green Plumbing: A Rising Trend
One of the most pressing concerns in the plumbing industry today is sustainability. The demand for eco-friendly plumbing solutions is at an all-time high as both consumers and businesses become more conscious of their environmental impact. Green plumbing includes water-saving devices, energy-efficient appliances, and the use of sustainable materials like PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) piping, which offers a longer lifespan and fewer leak risks than traditional materials.
Additionally, water recycling systems, rainwater harvesting solutions, and low-flow fixtures are becoming standard in new developments. For example, the integration of greywater systems, which reuse water from sinks, showers, and washing machines for irrigation or non-potable uses, is gaining popularity in both residential and commercial sectors. Plumbing companies are also incorporating eco-friendly solutions into their designs, promoting energy-efficient heating and water management systems, which are essential for reducing the carbon footprint of homes and businesses.
- Smart Plumbing: The Role of Technology
Technology is revolutionizing nearly every industry, and plumbing is no exception. The rise of smart homes and the Internet of Things (IoT) has led to an increase in smart plumbing solutions. These include smart water meters, leak detection systems, and automated faucets that can save both water and money. Smart water meters allow homeowners and businesses to monitor their water usage in real time, receiving alerts when there’s a sudden spike in consumption that could indicate a leak.
Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in plumbing systems can predict maintenance needs, minimizing downtime and reducing repair costs. Plumbing companies are also using augmented reality (AR) for design and installation, offering customers a more accurate, immersive experience. These advances are not just enhancing the customer experience but also improving the efficiency and accuracy of plumbing installations.
- Labor Shortages and Workforce Development
One of the significant challenges faced by the plumbing industry, particularly in developed countries, is the ongoing shortage of skilled labor. As older workers retire, there is a growing gap in the number of qualified plumbers to meet the rising demand for services. This shortage is becoming particularly problematic as urbanization increases, with new construction and renovation projects requiring more workers.
To address this issue, industry organizations are placing greater emphasis on training and apprenticeship programs. Partnerships with trade schools and community colleges are helping to build a pipeline of new workers. However, it’s not just about quantity; the quality of training programs is vital to ensure that the new generation of plumbers is equipped to handle the complexities of modern systems, from high-tech appliances to sustainable water solutions.
- Health and Safety Regulations: Meeting the Standards
As public health continues to be a priority globally, plumbing professionals are expected to adhere to increasingly stringent health and safety regulations. In both residential and commercial settings, plumbing systems are responsible for safeguarding the health of occupants by preventing the spread of diseases. Proper installation of backflow prevention devices, maintaining water quality, and ensuring that sanitation systems are functioning optimally are critical to public health.
The global plumbing community is also placing a significant emphasis on training and certification to ensure that plumbing professionals are up to date with the latest codes and regulations. These rules are evolving to include newer concerns, such as the prevention of Legionella bacteria in water systems and the incorporation of water efficiency measures. Compliance with these standards is not just a legal obligation; it’s also essential for protecting the health and safety of communities.
- The Future of Plumbing: Innovations on the Horizon
Looking to the future, several exciting innovations promise to further transform the plumbing industry. One such advancement is the development of “smart pipes,” which incorporate sensors to detect leaks, corrosion, or blockages. These sensors can alert homeowners or building managers in real time, preventing costly damage and improving system reliability.
Additionally, new materials and technologies are continuously being researched to improve plumbing systems. For example, graphene-infused pipes could make plumbing systems more durable, resistant to corrosion, and even self-healing. While these technologies are still in their infancy, they hold tremendous promise for the future of the plumbing industry.
- Industry Events: Networking and Collaboration
As the plumbing industry grows, so does the need for collaboration and knowledge exchange. Events and conferences such as the International Plumbing Expo, World Plumbing Conference, and various regional trade shows provide an opportunity for professionals to share insights, learn about the latest trends, and explore new technologies. These events also help businesses expand their networks, discover new products, and stay ahead of industry shifts.
In addition to traditional events, webinars and online seminars have become increasingly popular, providing easy access to information and offering a platform for global networking. In the post-pandemic world, hybrid events — combining in-person and virtual elements — are likely to continue to be a significant feature of the industry.
- Global Plumbing Challenges and Opportunities
As the global plumbing community continues to evolve, it faces a unique set of challenges and opportunities. From addressing the impact of climate change and water scarcity in developing regions to embracing digital technologies and automation in more developed markets, the plumbing industry must adapt quickly to remain relevant.
For example, in emerging economies, access to clean water and sanitation remains a critical issue. Plumbing professionals play a vital role in providing infrastructure to communities that have limited access to basic services. International collaborations and partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are helping to address these issues, ensuring that more people around the world can benefit from safe and reliable plumbing systems.
At the same time, the increasing demand for smart, efficient, and sustainable plumbing solutions in developed markets presents new opportunities for innovation, research, and development. Plumbing businesses that embrace these trends are well-positioned to lead in the next era of the industry.
Conclusion
The global plumbing community is entering a transformative era, where sustainability, technology, workforce development, and regulatory changes are at the forefront of industry discussions. From eco-friendly plumbing solutions to smart technologies that improve system efficiency, the industry is evolving to meet the demands of a modern, environmentally conscious world. By staying informed, adaptable, and committed to quality and innovation, plumbing professionals can ensure that they remain integral to the ongoing development of our homes, businesses, and infrastructure worldwide.
As the industry continues to face challenges such as labor shortages and health and safety regulations, the focus on education, collaboration, and technological advancement will be key to shaping the future of plumbing. It’s an exciting time for the global plumbing community, with new opportunities and solutions emerging that will improve lives and shape the way we think about water and sanitation for years to come.
Breaking Ground and Building Futures: How Pathway Plumbing Service is Pioneering Indigenous and Female Participation in Australia’s Construction Industry

Submitted by Pathway Plumbing Service, a valued member of the Cook and Dowsett Plumbing Group (CDPG)
Pathway Plumbing Service (PPS) is a proudly Indigenous-owned commercial plumbing company founded by returned services member Ricky Morris. As one of the first of its kind in Victoria Australia, PPS was established to create long-term employment and career development opportunities for young Indigenous Australians while delivering high-quality plumbing solutions on major construction projects.
Although PPS operates independently, we are a valued member of the Cooke & Dowsett Plumbing Group (CDPG). This partnership grants us access to a full suite of project management, estimating, design and construct capabilities, as well as prefabricated plumbing systems. These shared resources empower us to confidently deliver large-scale packages across sectors including infrastructure, health, education, and social housing.
In 2024, PPS proudly welcomed its first two Indigenous female apprentices: Tarquita Quinlan and Kaitlyn Robertson. Their introduction to the trade was made possible through the Willan Guiding Spirits Program, a culturally safe pre-employment initiative developed by Ricky Morris in partnership with the Willan Foundation. The program provides a part-time paid placement, intensive trade readiness training, a Certificate II qualification, accommodation support, life skills coaching, and structured mentorship.
Since completing their workshop inductions, both Tarquita and Kaitlyn have joined active job sites. Their success carries a powerful message, both for their own communities and the wider industry. “They are providing a successful story that other young women and the next generation of girls within their immediate families and communities can follow,” PPS Director Ricky Morris said.
Their progress comes at a critical time. Participation rates for both Indigenous Australians and women in trades remain disproportionately low. According to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, only 2% of tradespeople in construction are women, despite women comprising more than 11% of the total workforce. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that Indigenous Australians make up just 2.5% of the national workforce, with even fewer employed in technical and trade roles.
PPS is working to shift those figures. With strong cultural leadership and hands-on support, we are building a workforce that reflects our communities. Our approach goes beyond symbolic inclusion — we focus on delivering tangible, measurable outcomes. Our team benefits from one-on-one mentorship and real-world experience on complex projects that grow both confidence and capability.
At CDPG, Indigenous participation is not a trend but a longstanding commitment. The group’s Indigenous Participation Plan outlines how social procurement, training, and community partnerships are embedded across the entire project lifecycle. As Director Scott Dowsett notes, “The diversity of our company and attitudes throughout continue to make us proud of who we are.”
Together, PPS and CDPG are showing that cultural responsibility and technical excellence are not mutually exclusive — they are mutually reinforcing. Our business model enables Tier 1 builders to meet Indigenous procurement targets while working with a team that consistently delivers to the highest standards.
Building Toilets for Millions at the World’s Largest Gathering: Kumbh 2025

Submitted by MKG Engineering Services Pvt. Ltd.
A Review From Sanitation Point of View
The significance of Kumbh
The “Kumbh” is synonymous with the cultural and spiritual legacy of Hinduism, global appeal, and the world’s largest religious gathering. The event occurs every 12 years as the Purn (Complete) Kumb, every six years as the Ardh (Part) Kumbh and every 144 years as the Maha (Grand) Kumbh. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, this 45-day event attracts visitors from every corner of the world.
The Maha Kumbh 2025, a confluence (Sangam) of three rivers holy Ganges, Yamuna and mythical Saraswati at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India — recorded the presence of 660 million people, ¹ who took a dip in the holy waters. This is the highest recorded number in the history of Kumbh and way more than what was anticipated by the government (i.e. 450 million). Between 1.5 and 3 million visitors from more than 100 countries had been expected. ²
Such a massive event demand a higher standard of public health services, especially in the post-pandemic scenario. To meet international standards and align with the government’s decade-long national sanitation initiative, the “Swachh Bharat Mission” (Clean India Mission), the state government put in immense efforts to make it a “Swachh Kumbh” or “Clean Kumbh.” Toilet infrastructure was strategically planned across 4,000 hectares of land divided into 25 sectors, supported by an advanced maintenance system, an expanded sewage management system, and massive public awareness initiatives throughout the event — seizing the opportunity to set a global example of a clean and green Kumbh.
However, providing an efficient and proper sanitation for such a huge congregation is a challenge for any administration.
Celebrating International Women’s Day Across PICAC Campuses
Submitted by PICAC
This International Women’s Day, PICAC proudly hosted events across our campuses to celebrate the achievements of the women who are shaping the future of the plumbing and fire protection industries.
Across each campus, we brought together apprentices, students, staff, and industry leaders to recognise the invaluable contributions women make to our sector every day. These gatherings were more than just celebrations — they were a chance to reflect on progress, highlight inspiring stories, and reaffirm our commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and equitable industry for all.
At PICAC, we believe that diversity strengthens our industry. That’s why we’re actively working to ensure our training environments and workplaces are welcoming and accessible — places where every individual can succeed, regardless of gender.
As part of this year’s celebrations, we’re proud to share a special video that features firsthand experiences from the incredible women helping transform the plumbing and fire protection industries for the next generation.
HELP THE WORLD PLUMBING COUNCIL GROW
Do you know of an organization or individual interested in joining the WPC? Share this link (https://www.worldplumbing.org/shop/) so they can join and become part of our global plumbing community!
DATES FOR DIARY
IAPMO 2025 Annual Education and Business Conference
14-18 September 2025
Palm Springs, CA
www.iapmo.org
WaterSmart Innovations
7-9 October 2025
Reno, NV
www.watersmartinnovations.com
PHCC Connect 2025
27-30 October 2025
Grand Rapids, MI
www.phccweb.org
CIPHEX 2025
5-6 November 2025
Vancouver, British Columbia
www.ciph.com
Contact secretariat@worldplumbing.org to provide an event report or request listing of an upcoming event.