In the heart of East Champaran district’s Sugauli block lies the village panchayat of Dakshini Sugaon, where a significant success story has taken place. The village, particularly wards number 02 and 03, was plagued by a public drain that had become a source of distress for its residents. The accumulation of dirt and waterlogging led to a polluted environment, exacerbating the spread of waterborne diseases and affecting the daily lives of the villagers.
For much of the year, especially during the monsoon season, the public drain collected rainwater, which turned into stagnant pools. The foul smell and unsightly conditions forced villagers to navigate through filth, impacting their health and well-being. Additionally, the contamination of hand pump water became a pressing concern, as the accumulated waste seeped into groundwater sources.
Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, the local panchayat, under the leadership of Praveen Mishra, the then MGNREGA program officer, mobilized the community to tackle the dire sanitation crisis. Together, they envisioned a comprehensive solution that would not only improve sanitationbut also promote health and hygiene in the village.
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SOLUTION
The approach began with a thorough ground inspection and an estimation of the gray water generated from both wards. The team identified that the water from approximately 150 families’ hand pumps could be redirected through a series of drains into a main drainage system. The implementation involved several key steps:
- Redirection of Gray Water: The hand pump water was channelled into a main drain, designed to carry only gray water. This careful planning ensured that the drain remained free from contaminants.
- Construction of a Three-Chamber Tank: The main drain was extended to a central location in the village where land was available. Here, a three-chamber tank was constructed. The first chamber allowed for initial stabilization of the water, while the subsequent chambers facilitated further purification.
- Water Purification and Recharge: The purified water was then directed into a dug well, where it underwent additional treatment. It was subsequently channelled towards a nearby canal. Before the water was released into the canal, storage tanks and recharge pits were constructed to enhance water recharge and ensure sustainable use.
- Irrigation Support: The remaining water was released into the canal, significantly benefiting local agriculture by providing a reliable irrigation source.
The transformation of the drainage system has had a profound impact on the village. The once- polluted environment has been revitalized, leading to a reduction in waterborne diseases. Villagers can now traverse their community without encountering the health hazards associated with stagnant water. The improved water quality has also restored faith in the hand pump water, ensuring safer drinking options for families. The initiative not only addressed immediate sanitation concerns but also fostered a sense of community ownership and responsibility. The villagers, now aware of the importance of maintaining a clean environment, have become actively involved in the management of their water resources.
The successful revitalization of Dakshini Sugaon’s sanitation system stands as a testament to the power of community action and effective leadership. It highlights how a collaborative approach can lead to sustainable solutions for pressing public health challenges. As other villages look to improve their sanitation and water management, Dakshini Sugaon serves as a model.
