PowerPoint Presentation

[Virtual Presenter] Good morning everyone. Today I will be discussing the current state of sanitation in Tamil Nadu, the challenges of lack of access and inclusivity, and the institutional and inclusion initiatives that can be used to address them. With a focus on the year Jan 2024, I will review the progress made in the past four years and outline the roadmap for a more sustainable future. Please let me know if you have any questions..

[Audio] India has an ambitious goal to achieve by January 2024 - improving sanitation standards across the country. In Tamil Nadu, the plan is to optimize the full sanitation chain which includes institutionalizing inclusive sanitation through proper implementation of governance structures, scaling up existing initiatives for it to be accessible to all, and showing how FSM is a viable, affordable method to reach universal sanitation coverage. We'll now take a closer look at how these objectives are taking shape..

INTRODUCTION.

[Audio] Urban living has become ever more intricate, with intensifying disparities and the necessity of crafting durable models of growth. Founded in 2008, this organisation has become a pioneer in offering interdisciplinary solutions connected to urban planning, capacity enhancement, and research. Its Urban Fellows Programme, Urban Practitioners’ Programme, and International Research Collaborations have all constructed projects centered on having a constructive effect on urban developments. By associating with public, private, and educational bodies, the organisation can establish novel solutions which will help all inhabitants..

[Audio] With the population in Tamil Nadu continuing to expand, providing access to safe and hygienic sanitation is essential for the health and wellbeing of its citizens. According to the MAWS Policy Note 2022-23, 649 local bodies are present in the state, with a total population of over 30 million people. Of this population, it is estimated that 85% have access to improved sanitation systems, either communal or on-site. In addition, the state has implemented programs to expand access to those who are most vulnerable. Thus, Tamil Nadu is well on its way to reaching its goal of providing safe and hygienic sanitation services to all..

[Audio] The Sanitation initiatives of Jan 2024 are making great strides in strengthening institutions and scaling up Inclusion Initiatives. This has allowed for the majority of the population to have access to on-demand service provided by private de-sludging operators, with a competitive market and reasonable charges. Unfortunately, the market remains unregulated, leading to unsafe disposal of waste. To protect the health and safety of citizens, majority of households have been connected to on-site sanitation systems. Despite challenges such as non-standard containment sizes, significant investments have been made to the Sewage Treatment Plant capacity, making it the 9th largest in the country. Co-treatment is also being practiced at select STPs. Unfortunately, there are no adequate treatment facilities within reasonable distance from customer sites; nor is there effective reuse of treated water or standards in place..

[Audio] In 2015, the Technical Support Unit was launched by the Government of Tamil Nadu, and instituted within the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department. Since then, they have been scaling Fecal Sludge Management in 649 towns and cities, which span an overall population of 30 million. This program has been led by the Indian Institute for Human Settlements, with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. In 2019, the Citywide Inclusive Sanitation programme was launched in Trichy, in association with a consortium of partners. All of these efforts demonstrate how Tamil Nadu is finding ways to make sanitation an accessible and sustainable model..

[Audio] Sanitation is key to a better future. As we look toward the end of this decade and into the next, we must ensure that states are equipped with advanced sanitation approaches and plans. We must also ensure that all citizens have access to safe sanitation. To this end, our two-pronged approach seeks to strengthen sanitation institutions across the state, scale up inclusion initiatives, and demonstrate FSM as a sustainable model. Our demonstration of FSM is taking place in two urban locations: Tiruchirappalli, a large Class 1 city, and Periyanaicken-Palayam and Narasimhanaicken-Palayam. In Tiruchirappalli, FSM complements the existing networked system and helps to partially sewer the city. In Periyanaicken-Palayam and Narasimhanaicken-Palayam, we are creating a model for standalone FSM, as well as demonstrating a cluster approach. This approach serves to bring safe sanitation to all citizens and is setting a precedent for the rest of the state. By engaging in this two-pronged approach, we strive to create a sustainable model of sanitation that can be replicated and scaled up across India. Thank you..

[Audio] With an area of 130000 sq km and a population of 72 million, Tamil Nadu has the challenge of providing adequate sanitation services to its citizens. To address this, the state government is taking a holistic and integrated approach to sanitation, with the installation of septic tanks, toilets, and sanitation access points as well as the promotion of sustainable practices. This comprehensive strategy will ensure that citizens have access to safe and affordable sanitation, and that the state is able to sustain its sanitation commitments. To ensure this, Tamil Nadu is also working on the full cycle of sanitation, from the collection of waste to its treatment and disposal. New infrastructure is being built, and sustainable sanitation practices are being encouraged, creating an environment where everyone can benefit from safe, affordable sanitation..

[Audio] At the beginning of 2024, the state has made considerable progress in its sanitation infrastructure. Strategies such as co-treatment to maximize existing treatment capacity, Fecal Sludge Treatment Plants construction in different parts of the state, and provision of treatment services through the Cluster Approach have been successfully implemented. As a result, the state has managed to demonstrate FSM as a viable and sustainable model..

Spatial Coverage of FSM in Tamil Nadu. 11. [image].

[Audio] Since Jan 2024, efforts have been focused on strengthening institutions, scaling inclusion initiatives, and demonstrating fecal sludge management as a sustainable model. STeps have also been taken to saturate existing capacity, enabling co-treatment, improving decanting facilities, and FS screening and record keeping. Additionally, proposals have been put forward to set up more Fecal Sludge Treatment Plants, as well as bettering their operations and maintenance. This could ensure that all places can benefit from the necessary sanitation and wastewater management..

[Audio] For the last four years, Edappadi, Vandavasi, Kovilpatti and Senkottai have seen considerable development in the area of fecal sludge management (FSM). A program was implemented to develop sanitation access, which included the installment of Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs). These plants process human waste safely and sustainably, giving all four municipalities better sanitation access. The FSTPs have also provided a platform for public education, awareness-building and advocacy, leading to increased public backing for the FSM endeavour and better effectiveness and sustainability..

[Audio] Sanitation needs to be given the utmost priority if we wish to create a better future for our environment. The Clean India Mission 2.0 plan aims to provide municipal sewage treatment plants to towns with population counts of less than 100000 inhabitants. As part of this initiative, existing water supply and sanitation arrangements will be evaluated, DPRs will be reviewed, and reuse of options, including treatment suggestions, will be identified. By committing to developing sanitation, we will be able to implement a more sustainable model and ensure the institutions are strengthened and people are included in the process..

[Audio] The slide reveals that since January 2024, there has been a considerable investment in sanitation and waste management in the region. This has seen the establishment of 51 FSTPs with a capacity of 1,473 KLD and 59 STPs with a capacity of 1,200 MLD. This has improved the life of more than 15.75 million people. Moreover, FSM is being scaled and sustained across the region, setting the foundation for a more sustainable model in the future..

[Audio] By 2024, tremendous progress has been achieved in the field of sanitation, particularly with the emphasis on fortifying institutions and widening inclusion initiatives. FSM has proven to be a sustainable method of improving sanitation, in addition to expanding access to clean water and fostering a healthier and hygienic environment in all areas around the world. This efficiency of FSM has been demonstrated in rural and urban areas, highlighting its capability and the potential for bolstering public health. By implementing inclusive sanitation practices in institutions, we can guarantee a continuous dedication to availability and excellence in sanitation services..

[Audio] Over the past four years, the government of Tamil Nadu has taken a range of initiatives to bolster the legal and regulatory landscape for Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSM). This includes Operative Guidelines for Septage Management (2014), State Investment Plan (2018), Combined Development and Building Rules (2019), Memorandum of Understanding for Cluster Approach Standard Licensing Agreement (2020), as well as Faecal Sludge and Septage Management Chapter in the District Municipalities Act, the City Corporation Acts, and the Tamil Nadu Urban Local Bodies (Amendment) Act (2022). Additionally, Byelaws for Septage Management (2020-2023) and Operative Guidelines for Septage Management Revised (2023) have also been issued. To wrap up, the TNUSSP-TSU Advisory Committee and State/City Working Groups have been established to provide support and direction on the enforcement of septage management regulations..

[Audio] It is evident that improving sanitation is a pressing issue for our nation, and major organizations are taking action to support this pressing agenda. An Advisory Committee, Technical Support Unit, and Working Groups from cities Trichy and PNP-NNP have been created to review and facilitate implementation of sanitation initiatives. Moreover, a governance mechanism has been created to guarantee that Total Sanitation Mission is carried out quickly. We are sure that with these strong organizations in place, we will be able to make great strides in improving sanitation in the years to come..

[Audio] For the upcoming year, there is the potential to make progress in the field of sanitation. In January 2024, it is possible to use the resources available and make improvements in institutions across the country. Such initiatives could include financial sustainability, ringfencing, standardised procurement, service level agreements, and safe working environments. Doing so would show that Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs) and clusters are a sustainable, viable choice for sanitation..

[Audio] In January 2024, India will take a major move towards improving sanitation. This will involve reinforcing existing institutions, promoting inclusion, and displaying faecal sludge management as a viable solution. For this purpose, all Urban Local Bodies will issue a new standard license agreement to private de-sludging operators. This includes a fee of Rs. 2000 or USD 24, valid for two years, and covers accidental insurance for de-sludging workers and compliance with the Prevention of Manual Scavenging Act. Moreover, de-sludging fees for volumes of less than 6000 L and over 6000 L will be Rs. 200 or USD 2.4 and Rs. 300 or USD 3.6 respectively. Other measures include assigning duties to ULB officers for licensing procures, and reducing the decantation fees for proper disposal. Operators will be allowed a wider operational scope..

[Audio] We are aiming to take a significant stride towards improving sanitation in January 2024. To do this, we will be fortifying existing systems, developing inclusivity projects, and demonstrating how faecal sludge management can be a viable option. To facilitate this, we will be putting governance mechanisms into operation, as defined in government orders and service level agreements. Additionally, byelaws will be revised to give legal backing to this endeavour, and state departments will be offering support to urban local bodies to build their capabilities. Our goals also include including rural local bodies and ensuring conformity with act amendments..

[Audio] In January 2024 Tamil Nadu will be scaling inclusion initiatives in order to ensure the sustainability of Faecal Sludge Management (FSM). This resettlement policy will make the vulnerable as well as other key stakeholders aware of the advantages of FSM, and will help build capacity, create livelihoods and empower communities. To further improve the existing institutions, Tamil Nadu will also invest in infrastructure and establish reliable monitoring systems to make the application of FSM both effective and efficient..

[Audio] The city of Trichy is one of eight cities in the world that demonstrate inclusive sanitation. The journey began in 2018 with the launch of the CWIS program that focuses not only on fecal sludge management, but also on inclusion. Through innovative practices, the program is having a positive effect on sanitation outcomes, such as safely managed fecal sludge, improved sanitation services for the urban poor, strengthened urban local bodies, mainstreaming of gender concerns across the sanitation chain, and an overall betterment of health, welfare, and livelihood of sanitation workers..

[Audio] In January 2024, remarkable progress has been made in improving sanitation, particularly toward enhancing social inclusion. At the state level, there have been improvements in life skills, livelihoods and access to both public and private toilets, as well as in the services provided in such places. Additionally, gender and social inclusion have also been promoted through the creation of women groups, entrepreneurs and leaders. Additionally, efforts have been made to improve the quality of life of sanitation workers and advocating for social security and occupational health and safety. On top of this, the TN Urban WASH network has been successfully strengthened and sustained. As a result of the efforts so far, notable progress has been made in various areas of sanitation. Going forward, there will be a focus on expanding access to proper sanitation and developing a sustainable model for the future..

[Audio] 2020 has seen the world face numerous challenges, from the pandemic to the need for improving sanitation. By January 2024, India has made significant progress in advancing sanitation. To ensure that the urban poor have access to proper sanitation facilities, the UGSS Last Mile Connectivity Campaign has been instituted. Alwarathoppu settlement was chosen as a 2-day pilot program, and 128 community members were made aware of the need for UGD, existing conditions, and break up of deposit amount. A few of the hindrances to access included lack of land ownership, property tax, lack of awareness, and inability to pay the deposit amount. This campaign has created a plan with ULBs to link to centralized systems, along with periodic de-sludging at CT/PTs to create a more sanitary future..

[Audio] By the year 2024, we have set out to advance sanitation initiatives around the world. This requires strengthening institutions and scaling inclusion initiatives, as well as demonstrating Faecal Sludge Management as a sustainable model. One of the most important facets of these initiatives is the inclusion of sanitation workers. This includes toilet cleaners, de-sludging and sewer cleaning operators, workers at treatment facilities, railway track cleaners, solid waste management workers, and rag pickers. We have implemented initiatives to ensure social welfare, health, occupational safety, livelihoods, and skill building for all those involved. These initiatives include enabling linkages to various social security schemes and entitlements, vaccination drives, distribution of PPE kits and awareness building, first aid training manuals, and enabling linkages to NULM to support for loans and formation of enterprises..

[Audio] In order to make successful sustainable sanitation solutions a reality, local institutions, caretakers, and masons must be provided with safe working conditions and access to resources. It is also important to strengthen their skillsets, and if needed, scale their organizations to manage the demands of new initiatives. In January 2024, the sanitation committee is putting into motion multiple initiatives to increase access and containment, such as forming a POSH committee, gender budgeting, and providing first-aid training and business portfolio development. The committee is also paying special attention to training female masons in standard septic tank construction. With these initiatives in place, sustainable sanitation solutions should become a successful model by January 2024..

[Audio] Sanitation is a critical challenge facing our communities. Governments and institutions are taking the necessary steps to address this, but collective action is also needed. To include traditionally excluded populations in sanitation-related activities, integrated, sustainable models must be created. This will ensure access to basic services such as health check-ups and safety trainings, as well as to social welfare schemes, vocational trainings and enterprise setup support. Strengthening and advancing the sanitation efforts in our cities in this way can contribute significantly..

[Audio] We adopted criteria when selecting three cities to serve as models for advancing sanitation initiatives. This criteria included World Bank cities, available and upcoming treatment facilities, distance from Chennai and Trichy, Swacch Survekshan score, availability of Community Toilets/Public Toilets and women leadership. Maraimalai Nagar, Pudukottai, Chennai, Trichy, and Vallam have all been identified as cities that fit this criteria with the presence of urban poor and strong women leadership. Our proposed strategic interventions range from Scheduled desludging for all OSS-Dependent Community Toilets/Public Toilets statewide to improved Last Mile Connectivity and Capacity Building for Urban Local Governments. With these four cities as the foundation, we can progress in our goals of improved sanitation..

[Audio] A mascot-led behaviour change campaign called Kakkaman was launched in Jan 2024 as part of the government's People’s Mission for Clean Cities program, with the aim of educating the public on the concepts of sanitation and faecal sludge management, and encouraging the public to adopt sustainable sanitation practices. This program demonstrates the positive impact that communication initiatives can have in advancing sustainability goals..

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