|
|
|
|
Most water supply systems and sanitation facilities were severely damaged and in
need of immediate attention, after the earthquake. Water is life, and without easy
access to safe drinking water, tens of thousands of people in the affected area
were vulnerable to waterborne diseases like cholera and dysentery. Natural springs
are scattered throughout the higher altitudes of valley, but the earthquake destroyed
hundreds of miles of pipeline that links this clean, precious water to the villages
below. CARE has repaired the area’s major water supply systems and replaced damaged
pipes, allowing some 30,000 people to regain access to clean water. CARE worked
closely with 30 communities to build more than 600 latrines and wash facilities.
We met with villagers to help determine the best location for each facility and
then supplied the construction materials
|
|
Hidden Safety Risks for Women
Before the earthquake, latrine coverage throughout the Allai
Valley was less than 10 percent. Aside from health risks associated with unsanitary
conditions, this shortfall left women particularly vulnerable. In this conservative
area, many women are not permitted to be seen in public, which means they must wait
until nightfall to attend to their personal hygiene – on the outskirts of their
village, most often near streams and rivers far from their homes.
|
|
|
and assembly instructions, but community members built the latrines themselves in
order to have a greater sense of ownership in the project. CARE also provided education
on latrine maintenance, hygiene and sanitation to more than 18,000 people. CARE’s
water and sanitation program continues to expand as additional communities are identified,
and plans have been made to develop community waste-management systems including
trash bins for solid waste disposal.
|
|
|
|
Back to Top
|
|