Since 2012, Habitat for Humanity Australia has partnered with people living in urban informal settlements (or ‘slum’ communities) in Dhaka to strengthen collective resilience. Our work focuses on improving access to safe and resilient housing, clean water and adequate sanitation, while promoting healthy hygiene practices.
This current project addresses the urgent need for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions in Beguntila slum. Residents will have improved access to safe water, improved sanitation facilities and essential hygiene practices for improved community health. The project includes the construction and rehabilitation of community toilets, drainage systems, housing repairs and water supply facilities. Associated training activities with local committees will ensure the ongoing local operation and maintenance of these services.
Project Need
Dhaka is a rapidly urbanising megacity, currently home to 3.5 million people living in informal settlements. In Beguntila slum, 2,500 residents currently lack access to safe water, sanitation facilities and effective drainage systems.
Ineffective or non-existent drainage systems along with inadequate solid waste management, contribute to clogged sewers, increasing flood risks and waterborne illnesses. Addressing these challenges is critical to building resilient communities.
Project Activities
The project will improve living conditions and resilience of the community, in particular, reducing the significant impacts of flooding through:
- Rehabilitation of toilet blocks, community bathhouses and drainage systems
- Hygiene training with the community
- Formation and support of Community WASH Committees to maintain facilities and monitor ongoing performance
- Housing improvements to enhance safety and resilience
- Urban dialogues to advocate with relevant stakeholders for the needs of Dhaka’s slum population
Impact
By the end of the project, 1,500 residents of Beguntila slum will experience increased resilience through:
- Improved access to housing and essential services, including water and sanitation, reduces illness, improving health and dignity.
- Strengthened local community capacity for self-organisation, planning and inclusive decision-making
- Enhanced engagement and advocacy channels with other urban stakeholders
This project is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and is implemented in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Bangladesh.
