Village Sanitation Center
Village Sanitation Program
Ensuring Hygienic Sanitation for a Healthier Future
Access to proper sanitation is essential for preventing diseases and improving overall well-being. In many rural areas, the lack of hygienic latrines has led to widespread health issues, particularly among children. To address this critical challenge, the Faridpur Development Agency (FDA) initiated the Village Sanitation Program (VSP) to eliminate unhygienic practices, promote the use of sanitary latrines, and build long-term awareness about hygiene.
Program Details
1. Campaign Against Unhygienic Latrines
In the past, many rural households used open or unhygienic latrines, resulting in frequent outbreaks of diarrhea and other diseases. To combat this issue, FDA launched a campaign to eliminate unhygienic latrines and replace them with sanitary alternatives. Initially, free ring-slab latrines were distributed to households. However, due to a lack of awareness, some people misused the materials for other purposes, such as building cattle sheds. Others broke the water seals, rendering the latrines ineffective.
2. Training and Awareness Initiatives
To ensure proper usage and long-term adoption, FDA implemented extensive training and awareness programs. These included:
Community orientations on hygiene and sanitation.
Training sessions for local masons on how to construct durable and affordable sanitary latrines.
Awareness campaigns to educate families on the benefits of using hygienic latrines.
As a result, people have become more conscious of sanitation, and many households now invest in sanitary latrines on their own.
3. Establishment of the Village Sanitation Center (VSC)
To provide a sustainable solution, FDA, with the support of NGO Forum, established the Village Sanitation Center (VSC) in 1990 with an initial fund of 49,676 BDT. The center plays a crucial role in ensuring that people in Faridpur Sadar Upazila have access to durable and affordable sanitation facilities.
4. Promoting Commercial Sanitation Enterprises
As the demand for hygienic latrines increased, many individuals took up ring-slab latrine production and sales as a profession. This has not only improved sanitation but also created economic opportunities for local masons and small business owners.
Impact and Future Goals
Through the Village Sanitation Program, thousands of families now have access to hygienic sanitation, leading to a significant decline in waterborne diseases. FDA aims to further expand the program, ensuring that every household in rural areas adopts safe and sustainable sanitation practices for a healthier future.