Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH)- a Human Right in Peace and Disasters

Since the devastating effects of Cyclone Vardah, Caritas India in partnership with MSSS has reached out to over 1000 people in Chennai and Thiruvallur districts with WASH and Shelter support. In order to assist MSSS in promoting a campaign on WASH, and undertaking Post- Disaster Monitoring (PDM), Caritas India organized an orientation meeting from 17-18 January, at MSSS in Chennai.

Ms. Jasmine Joseph and Ms. Lee Macqueen of Caritas India oriented the staff on WASH and Post Distribution Monitoring. The orientation aimed at capacitating the staff on WASH in emergency as means to reduce the transmission of faecal-oral and vector borne diseases, and reduce environmental health risks by promoting good hygiene practices, providing water and sanitation services and ensuring the optimal use of facilities provided. Demonstration of WASH kit contents including usage of  Water Purification tablets, hand washing techniques, importance of  Personal Hygiene Practices (Brushing teeth, Bathing, combing, clipping  nails, Hand wash etc.), oral-faecal chain and risks of open defecation and water handling practices (collection, storage and usage) were discussed, contextualized to the social context. Session also focused on safe menstrual hygiene practices and interactive games for children. Additionally, the team was oriented through the PDM process to enable community feedback on the quality and other aspects of assistance extended.

On second day, the capacitated MSSS staff conducted the awareness programme with the community women. Many day to day unhygienic practices were discussed and queries clarified. The MSSS team will now give orientation to 1000 beneficiaries spread across 30 villages and different slums in Chennai and Thiruvallur districts in the coming week.