Research on awareness about Environmental Sanitation

An exploratory research project has been undertaken to study the awareness of the rural communities on the problems resulting from poor environment and sanitation. We have stressed the consequences of poor environment exemplified by lack of proper waste water disposal systems, drinking water supply, and lack of proper solid waste disposal methods.  Such a situation combined with unhygienic practices results in several serious conditions such as helminthic infestations among women and children and other water-borne diseases which are also highly communicable.  We have prepared a study on the awareness levels regarding environmental sanitation and resulting health problems and methods of preventing them.  The study has been going on since December 2008 and will be taken up for analysis sequentially.

A research cum action programme has been prepared to be carried out in Dindigul district on remediation of the environmental damage caused by scores of tanneries situated in and around Dindigul town where thousands of hectares of soil has been polluted by the uncontrolled release of toxic effluents from the tanneries.  Research cum action programme aims to stem further pollution and would explore methods for restoring soil fertility.  The proposal has been submitted to various funding agencies and we are waiting for their response.