World Toilet Day 2024: Role Of Sanitation In Health And Disease Prevention

AlRAYAN Daily- Breaking News Desk November 19, 2024, 06:00 IST

The United Nations has marked World Toilet Day 2024 with a focus on "Toilets – A Place for Peace," emphasizing the growing threat to sanitation posed by conflict, climate change, and natural disasters. The theme highlights how damaged or destroyed sanitation systems can spread human waste, leading to deadly diseases.

In India, this year's celebrations have taken on a significant tone as the country solidifies its commitment to maintaining an Open Defecation-Free status, with a focus on providing safe toilets for all citizens by 2030. This goal is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and aims to eradicate open defecation by January 2023.

According to the World Toilet Organization (WTO), three billion people worldwide lack proper sanitation, leading to avoidable illnesses and fatalities among children. As a result, public awareness campaigns are critical for shaping policy decisions and securing investments in sanitation infrastructure.

A key highlight of India's efforts is its initiative "Hamara Shauchalay: Hamara Samman," which promotes the importance of water toilets in enhancing dignity and privacy, mainly for women and girls. The campaign runs from November 19 to December 10, coinciding with Human Rights Day.

Celebrations marking World Toilet Day have also inspired global campaigns focused on addressing these pressing health concerns via access to safe water and sanitation facilities.