The drive started with distribution of basil plants and roses to people. The aim was to make them aware against open defecation. However, it was not sufficient. It was seen that people still were witnessed defecating openly by the sides of roads. Hence, the district administration came up with another unique way.
SHG groups have been engaged to stop ‘Open defecation’ in two villages under Goutami GP of Sanakhemundi block. They are taking strong steps against people who are defecating in open spaces. And this unique way have been applauded by the village management committee.
Lately they identified some people who were adopting open defecation though they have toilets at their homes. The SHG groups identified and banned such 24 people to from buying ration from stores.
Besides, 280 families have been provided with assistance to construct toilets at their homes. The Sarapanch of one of these villages said that steps have been taken to help out those who do not have space at their houses to construct toilets.
Prasanta Patnaik