Abstract

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: Through the Eyes of Slum Dwellers

Introduction: Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA) was launched on October 2, 2014. Sanitation is an important determinant of health. Sanitation and health related conditions like acute gastroenteritis cause about 13% under 5 mortality in India. As per 2015 wash watch report, only 44% of the population has access to basic sanitation services. Assessment of sanitary practices like hand washing, sewage/solid waste disposal etc. and continuous health education among slum dwellers will help to achieve the goal of SBA.

Objectives: To assess awareness of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and evaluate practices of sanitation and hygienein selected households of urban slums (Amravati city).

Methodology: A cross sectional, descriptive study was done over 2 months from May-June 2022. Simple random sampling was used to choose households from urban slums of Belpura (Amravati). Predesigned structured questionnaire was used to collect data from adults of selected households. A total of 162 households were surveyed.

Results: Out of 162 participants interviewed, 120 (74.1%)were found to be aware of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Educational status was found to be significantly associated with awareness of SBA and sanitary practices (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Majority of the people were aware of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and educational status played a very significant role in sanitary practices (hand hygiene, water filtration, garbage disposal). Cleanliness should be made a way of life through continuous health education.

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