In Karnataka, India substantial investments have been made by the government in primary and middle schools such as for example in rainwater harvesting to provide supplemental water for the schools. Toilets have been built in all schools and mid-day meals are being provided.
Due to many reasons these assets are not functioning. For example in many schools the rainwater harvesting systems are broken and do not collect or store water. Without water many toilets do not function forcing the children to go outdoors. The cooks who are employed to cook the mid-day meals find it difficult to find water to cook, to wash the utensils and for hand washing.
We at Biome Environmental Trust have been trying to mobilise volunteer efforts as well as find funds from organisations to being these assets back to life.
This is done in full discussion with the school , the students and the parents.
The 20,000 litre underground sump tank built by another government fund and lying un-utilized is now full and connected to the toilet through a hand pump. This will provide the much needed water for the toilet to be used effectively.
A clean roof , first rain separation and a good pre-filter before the water is stored is ensured. Also a good post storage filter in case the water is used for drinking such as the TATA-SWACH
The toilets in the schools lying unused get a chance to be used with the availability of water. Especially for girls this becomes very helpful.