Introduction

Namaste, dear reader. In our great nation of India, the lack of an adequate sewer system is a pressing issue that impacts the health and well-being of millions. This problem is multifaceted, involving corruption, inadequate funding, and a lack of hygienic practices among the populace. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind this pressing issue and explore possible solutions for improving the sewer system in India.

Corruption and Funding Issues

The lack of a robust sewer system can be attributed to several factors, with corruption and funding mismanagement being key contributors. Government officials and corrupt contractors often siphon off public funds meant for infrastructure improvements. According to The Guardian, in India, many agencies and offices consume a significant portion of the allocated funds, rendering the raw materials and labor insufficient. This results in subpar and incomplete projects.

The political landscape also plays a role. As stated by one of the sources, politicians and their close family members serve as contractors for municipal and public works departments. The allocation of tender rates is often inflated, with contractors receiving up to 210% of the actual cost. This significantly hampers the quality of work, as the majority of the funds are used for distribution among politicians, with only about 75-80% spent on actual work. During election periods, this allocation can drop to less than 50%. This disparity is evident in the quality of infrastructure projects, including drainage systems which are often shabbily built, with work completed at 40-50% of the estimated cost.

Technological and Infrastructure Gaps

The modern Western sanitation system, which includes clean toilets, flushing, and proper hygiene, is currently lacking in India. This modern system is essential for maintaining personal and environmental hygiene. However, India faces significant challenges in infrastructure development, which are critical for any sanitation system to function effectively.

Running water and proper drainage systems are prerequisites for modern sanitation. In the absence of these, even newly constructed toilets can quickly become unhygienic. Additionally, India's history of segregating toilets as separate buildings away from the main household has led to inadequate sanitation practices. Without a proper drainage system, people often dispose of waste in open pits, which are inherently unhygienic. The concept of a dry toilet is also less prevalent in Indian households, often leading to unclean and wet toilet floors.

The absence of a functional toilet economy further exacerbates the issue. Toilets could potentially be a source of an economic activity in themselves, but in India, this potential has not been realized. Public utility coupons linked to toilet usage could create a self-sustaining cycle, but such initiatives are few and far between.

Promoting Hygiene and Public Awareness

To improve the sewer system, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Promoting public awareness and engaging the community in sustainable practices can help foster a culture of hygiene. Initiatives like Water Aid India's Toilets for All campaign aim to educate people about the importance of proper sanitation and hygiene practices. Additionally, stricter regulations and oversight can help prevent corruption and ensure that funds are utilized effectively.

Investment in technology and infrastructure is also crucial. Leveraging innovative solutions, such as decentralized sewage systems and advanced drainage networks, can address the current deficiencies. Collaboration between the government, private sector, and communities can expedite the transition to a more modern and sustainable sanitation infrastructure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the lack of a robust sewer system in India is a complex issue, with deep-rooted causes such as corruption and inadequate funding. To address this, it is essential to promote public awareness, enforce stricter regulations, and invest in sustainable infrastructure solutions. Jai Bharat. Jai Hind, for a cleaner and more sustainable India.