International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), 2023
Implementing Partners: International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Emory University, Implementing partners: Bangladesh Red Crescent Society - Barishal Unit, British Red Cross, Department of Public Health Engineering, Barishal City Corporation, General Hospital, Red Crescent Hospital
Published In: COP28 Prospectus of Climate-Health Solutions, 2023
Bangladesh is at significant risk of climate-induced disasters due to its low lying terrain (6 metres above sea level), rising temperatures (+0.5°C from 1979 to 2019), and expected increases in rainfall, with the most impoverished communities being the most severely affected. These consequences of climate change are a significant concern for the water supply, sanitation, and hygiene systems (WASH).
Barishal region in southern Bangladesh stands at the intersection of climate change challenges and water scarcity, with its slums witnessing acute water access issues. Poor sanitation and inadequate water infrastructure affect the 600,000 residents across the 30 Barishal City Corporation wards, which require a daily supply of 56 million litres of wate, but only receive 29 million litres.
The Vulnerability to Resilience (V2R) project by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society is funded by the British Red Cross to address WASH challenges in the region. Solutions have been implemented to address health and climate crises by providing clean water and sanitation, and through clean-up campaigns and waste management.
The project’s most significant investments were centred around construction works. This included the installation of a secure, reliable water pipeline network and deep tube wells to ensure a steady, clean water supply. Climate-resilient communal bathrooms and latrines were constructed, with separate facilities for males and females, in communities and in schools. These bathrooms were not connected to open canals, thereby reducing the risk of spread of infectious diseases. Drainage systems with lids that serve as sidewalks were developed to reduce standing water and associated health risks.
In parallel, awareness campaigns were developed, further supported by provision of household waste baskets, communal dustbins, and three-wheelers to facilitate community garbage collection. Training sessions were organised by Community Disaster Response Teams, focusing on water, waste management, and basic hygiene practices. School children were positioned as agents of change, with dedicated teacher training to reinforce the project’s objective. City and Ward committees were formed, facilitating workshops and collaborating with service providers for training. Overall, these measures aimed to improve the community’s WASH infrastructure and promote better hygiene practices.
Key stakeholders in the project included representatives from the Department of Public Health Engineering, Barishal City Corporation, General Hospital, Red Crescent Hospital, Local Government and Engineering Department, as well as school teachers and members of school managing committees – these stakeholders were engaged throughout the project, from need assessment, planning, designing, and monitoring, ensuring a holistic approach.
The project significantly improved disaster preparedness, water and sanitation facilities in ten urban slums in Barisal, reaching almost 28,700 individuals. The project brought about significant household and community level changes, establishing links with local government services.
The project’s community driven decision making, especially involving vulnerable groups increased the chances of long term success and sustainability. The community adopted disaster preparedness measures, and most households gained access to climate-resilient water and sanitation facilities. About 90% of households reported being prepared for disaster, which will reduce future injuries and loss of life. Additionally, 79% of homes now have access to improved drinking water sources, decreasing water-borne diseases; this increased from 32% prior to the V2R project. Latrine coverage was improved, reducing the risk of diseases that thrive on fecal contamination, with 69% of households now having handwashing devices and 57% being equipped with soap and water post-defecation.
Improved water and sanitation services led to healthier communities, boosting economic activity. The project also positively impacted education, by increasing attendance in schools. Gender-specific facilities ensured girls didn’t miss school during menstrual cycles, and accessible latrines enabled children with disabilities to attend school more regularly.
The V2R project’s multi-layered approach, engaging stakeholders from the grassroots to the government, ensured that its strategies and practices could be adapted and implemented in diverse settings, in several rural and urban areas of Bangladesh.
