Water Sanitation & Hygeine
he Gangtok Water Supply and Sanitation Project (GWSSP), spearheaded by the Sikkim Development Foundation, aimed at revolutionizing water supply and waste management systems in Arithang, a bustling suburb of Gangtok, Sikkim. This project was a cornerstone in demonstrating community-led initiatives in sanitation and water supply improvements.
Start Date:
Mar 12, 2004
End Date:
Nov 12, 2005
Area Served:
Arithang neighborhood, Gangtok, Sikkim
Funded By:
AusAID and the Government of Sikkim
Role of SF:
Designing, coordinating, and facilitating community-driven infrastructure improvements
Arithang faced significant urban challenges, including inadequate water supply and ineffective waste management, exacerbated by its rapid urban expansion. The GWSSP aimed to address these critical issues through sustainable community-driven solutions.
Objectives
The project was designed to:
Enhance water supply systems to ensure reliable and adequate water distribution.
Implement solid waste management systems to improve sanitation and environmental health.
Promote community engagement and empowerment, ensuring sustainability and local ownership of infrastructure improvements.
Implementation Strategy and Achievements
Methodological Approach
The project employed a multi-faceted approach:
Community Mobilization: Engaging local stakeholders to ensure active participation.
Infrastructure Upgrades: Installing new water pipelines and waste management facilities.
Education and Awareness Campaigns: Conducting outreach to promote sustainable practices and improve hygiene.
Key Achievements
Infrastructure Development: Significant upgrades to water and sanitation infrastructure, leading to improved public health and environmental conditions.
High Community Involvement: Strong engagement results, with local stakeholders taking active roles in ongoing management and maintenance.
Establishment of UADS: Formation of the United Arithang Development Society to continue project initiatives and maintenance.
Table 1: Project Impact Overview
Key Metrics | Before Project | After Project |
|---|---|---|
Water Connectivity | 40% of homes | 85% of homes |
Functional Toilets | 30% | 95% |
Community Participation | Low | High |
Role of the Sikkim Development Foundation
Project Design and Oversight
SDF designed and managed the project, ensuring alignment with community needs and sustainability objectives.
Capacity Building
SDF's initiatives included training for local leaders on project management, technical skills for maintaining new infrastructure, and sustainability practices.
Community Engagement
SDF facilitated extensive community interaction to foster ownership and sustained engagement in project outcomes.
Monitoring and Evaluation
Robust monitoring and evaluation were conducted to assess impact, with results used to refine strategies and report to stakeholders.
Table 2: Community Engagement Activities
Activity Type | Description | Participants |
|---|---|---|
Workshops | Training on water management and waste | 200+ |
Community Meetings | Regular updates and feedback sessions | 300+ |
Education Campaigns | Hygiene and sustainability practices | 1000+ |
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