RAMP UP EAST 2012 Resident Satisfaction Survey REPORT OF RESULTS: CITY OF PARUN

The program, implemented by Development Alternatives Inc. (DAI), International City/County Management Association (ICMA), and National Research Center, Inc. (NRC), focuses on addressing infrastructure, service delivery, leadership, and management capacity. In Parun, a city within the RAMP UP East (RUE) region, resident surveys were conducted in September 2012 to assess the quality of life and municipal services. A total of 140 residents were interviewed, providing valuable insights into the city's infrastructure and service provision. The results indicate that Parun's overall quality of life is fair, but residents are concerned about the limited job opportunities and inability to purchase food frequently. Residents' ratings of physical infrastructure, such as roads and drainage, are almost universally poor. The city lacks parks, the market is in disrepair, and trash is often left in the streets. Drinking water is primarily sourced from open water sources, and electricity is generated by Micro Hydro Power. When asked, residents prioritize new sources for clean drinking water and electricity as their top service needs. Trust in the municipal government is weak, with most residents believing they have little influence on government decision-making. However, residents acknowledge that local government officials rarely work to serve people like them, and they have little trust in the government's ability to conduct activities that benefit the people of Parun. Despite the prevalence of corruption in Afghanistan, most Parun residents have not been asked to give cash, gifts, or perform favors for government officials when contacting government offices. The survey results highlight the need for improved municipal services, infrastructure, and governance in Parun. Addressing these challenges will require a concerted effort from the municipal government, RAMP UP partners, and the community to improve the quality of life for residents and enhance the city's overall development.