Improving sanitation

The Delhi Jal Board (DJB), Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and concerned authorities were also directed to run a campaign to create awareness about the harmful effects of cleaning sewers on the health of the workers.

Not only is he revamping the slums by building toilets, he’s also making sure they are maintained well.

Kalavati, a 50 year old passionate woman mason went house-to-house, collected funds and constructed toilets in her village all by herself. This is her story of how her efforts brought change and improved lives in the households of Uttar Pradesh.

From taking matters into their own hands to creating unique and innovative solutions for India's sanitation problems, these unsung heroes are leading India to a healthier and cleaner future. Here are five amazing initiatives that are quietly but determinedly improving sanitation in India.

These women from Self Help Groups in Orissa have solved the problem of open defecation in a very interesting way. They not only started patrolling the streets but also planted the holy "Tulsi" plant to stop people from defecating in the open. Meet the amazing whistle blowers and their story of making their block completely "swachh".

Is constructing toilets enough to solve India's looming sanitation problem? Apparently not. There is a need for awareness, greater community involvement and change in behaviour. Learn how these villages, organizations and communities have tried innovative ways to achieve total sanitation without expensive or short-term interventions.