Sanitation

Background:
Access to proper sanitation facilities is a pressing need in Beed district, Maharashtra. Despite some villages being declared open defecation free by government data, ground realities paint a different picture. Many households still lack toilets, forcing women to resort to open defecation, especially after dark, due to safety concerns. Dysfunctional government-built toilets further compound the issue. For the impoverished families struggling to make ends meet, constructing a toilet is a daunting expense.

JVSS’s Intervention:
Recognizing the urgency of addressing this critical issue, Janvikas Samajik Sanstha (JVSS) and Habitat for Humanity India have collaborated to provide Individual Household Latrines (IHLs) to 231 families in Beed district, Maharashtra. These toilets are meticulously constructed, adhering to technical standards, ensuring they are functional and fit for use.

Targeting Vulnerable Communities:
The beneficiaries of this project include the most vulnerable sections of society:

• Affected families
• Widows
• Destitute and deserted women
• NT (Nomadic Tribes)
• DNT (Denotified Tribes)
• Dalits
• Marginal farmers
• Landless farmers
• Handicapped individuals
• Poor families

Empowering Women and Promoting Hygiene:
JVSS, along with Habitat for Humanity India, recognizes that empowering women through improved sanitation is crucial for their dignity, health, and safety. The provision of IHLs has had a profound impact on the lives of women in the region. They no longer have to endure the discomfort and insecurity of open defecation. The availability of functional toilets ensures that women can attend to their nature’s call in a safe and private environment at any time of the day.

Creating Awareness:
In addition to providing sanitation facilities, JVSS actively spreads awareness about the importance of hygiene and cleanliness. Through community engagement, workshops, and educational campaigns, the organization encourages good sanitation practices and behavioral change.

Impact and Transformation:
The provision of Individual Household Latrines has brought about transformative changes in the lives of beneficiaries:

• Improved Dignity: Women regain their dignity and privacy, eliminating the need for open defecation.
• Health and Hygiene: Access to proper sanitation contributes to improved health and hygiene outcomes, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.
• Social Empowerment: The project uplifts marginalized communities and fosters social inclusion, empowering them to lead healthier and more dignified lives.

By addressing the critical issue of sanitation, JVSS and Habitat for Humanity India are creating a positive impact on the well-being and development of communities in Beed district. Through collaborative efforts and community involvement, we aspire to make open defecation a thing of the past, ensuring that every household has access to hygienic and dignified sanitation facilities. Together, we are working towards a healthier, more empowered, and sustainable future for all.