Institutional Progress and Outcomes of the Paraíba State Water Plan, Brazil

Sustainable water resource management is a strategic challenge for regional development, particularly in vulnerable areas such as the semi-arid region of northeastern Brazil. This study evaluates the implementation of the programs of the Para & iacute;ba State Water Resources Plan (SWRP/PB). The methodology was structured and evaluated using performance indicators, defined as the achievement status relative to the planned objective. Progress was measured on a normalized scale from 0 to 1. An exploratory analysis was conducted using simple linear regression, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation tests. The analysis revealed advances in the creation of basin committees and the restoration of water infrastructure, such as dams and artesian wells. The linear regression applied explains the institutional expectation variable, revealing statistically non-significant (p = 0.754) and no explanatory power (adjusted R2 = -0.216). The analysis revealed that delays in implementation hinder program performance, while higher initial targets are positively associated with improved execution outcomes. Despite progress in creating basin committees and restoring water infrastructure, critical goals such as implementing water concession management systems and establishing effective water usage charging remain constrained by operational and institutional barriers. These results underscore the importance of timely implementation, realistic goal-setting, and stronger institutional capacity to enhance the effectiveness of water resource programs.