Improving Housing, Water, and Sanitation for Vulnerable Dalit and Untouchable Communities in Satkhira
In the southwestern region of Bangladesh, Satkhira has long been plagued by natural disasters such as flooding, tidal surges, and waterlogging, which worsened the extreme poverty in the area. Among the most marginalized groups were the Rishipara communities, a Dalit group considered “untouchable” due to their low-caste Hindu status. Their vulnerable economic situation, compounded by widespread discrimination, left them living in sub-standard housing, with poor sanitation and limited access to safe drinking water, exposing them further to the threats of climate change.
This project, which was implemented in two villages in Satkhira, directly targeted 180 Rishipara families (900 individuals) who were living in dire conditions. Approximately 38% of the homes in these communities were fragile structures made of mud floors, bamboo walls, and straw or tiled roofs, while the rest were also in similarly poor condition. The scarcity of safe drinking water due to high salinity levels, combined with inadequate sanitation facilities, had placed the health and well-being of these communities at significant risk.
Through this project, Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh successfully improved the housing and WASH conditions for the most vulnerable families. New homes were built, existing ones were renovated, sanitary toilets were constructed, deep tube wells were installed, and community bathhouses were developed. In addition, training programs were provided to enhance the community’s knowledge of WASH practices and disaster mitigation strategies.
Women and children, in particular, benefited from the construction of dedicated community bathhouses, while comprehensive WASH training empowered the entire community to maintain healthier, more sanitary living environments. Training in waste management and appropriate construction technology also helped families adapt to their circumstances and build resilience in the face of future challenges.
The long-term impact of the project was amplified by partnerships with local governments and other organizations, creating a coalition that extended support to other vulnerable families in the area, making the intervention more sustainable and far-reaching.
