(a) whether the Government hasassessed the impact of the Open DefecationFree (ODF) drive;
(b) if so, the details and the outcomethereof particularly in Saurashtra region;
(c) whether any reports/complaintshas been received that the toilets built underthe scheme are not disabled-friendly andhave other problems as well; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and thecorrective steps proposed to be taken inthis regard?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR MINISTRY OF DRINKING WATER & SANITATION
(SHRI RAMESH CHANDAPPA JIGAJINAGI)
(a) and (b) Open Defecation Free (ODF) has a positive impact on the health of the people. This helps save money spent on treatment of avoidable diseases caused due to open defecation. As per study undertaken by UNICEF, on an average each household in Open Defecation Free villages in India saves Rs.50,000 every year by way of diseases averted, time saved and lives saved. Further, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) has also conducted a study to assess the health impacts of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin). The study revealed that there is reduction in cases of diarrhea, stunting and wasting among children in ODF areas versus comparable non-ODF areas, and lesser cases of women with lower than average Body Mass Index in ODF areas.The findings of the study are indicative for any ODF areas versus comparable non-ODF areas, which may include the Saurashtra region.
(c) and (d) No, Madam. However Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation has issued instructions that households having differently-able persons should be provided disabled-friendly toilets and all Community sanitary complexes need to be made Divyang-friendly.