It may not always be possible to select a suitable source of drinking water or utilize a standard method for water treatment in conflict affected areas due to the limitations imposed by the prevailing conditions. • In order to ensure availability of safe drinking water in UN peacekeeping missions, it is imperative to carry out an indepth analysis of the local setting along with meticulous planning for provisioning of appropriate water purification equipment and stores in the pre-deployment phase. • The chemicals for water purification, being an essential requirement in the mission area, should be procured through UN sources (as is the case with fuel and food items) via a “letter of assist” request from the TCC.