A Strong Determination

Group: - CP group & SHG group
Subject: - Application for drainage blockage and stagnant water.

Process:

In the spirit of collective action and community responsibility, the ‘Shanti’ Self-Help Group (SHG) and ‘Mahatma’ Child Parliament (CP) group of Bhona once again came together to address a recurring problem that had been severely affecting the daily lives and health of local residents—drainage blockage and stagnant water.

Background:

In October and November 2024, following several complaints about drainage overflow, an application was submitted to the local ward member. Prompt action was taken at that time, and regular cleaning of the drainage system was initiated. This significantly improved sanitation in the village for a few months. However, over time, the cleaning efforts stopped, and the same issue re-emerged, causing serious concern among the villagers.

Community Meeting & Action Plan:

On 25th January 2025, a joint meeting was organized by ‘Shanti’ and ‘Mahatma’ group members, in which 13 CPs and 10 Women participated. The community discussed the worsening drainage situation and the health hazards being caused by stagnant water, including:

• Severe water pollution impacting daily life

• Rapid breeding of mosquitoes, leading to the risk of diseases

The group decided to draft a fresh application to the ward member, Mr. Vishal, to bring the issue back to the administration's attention.

Earlier:

Advocacy & Follow-up:

Despite earlier reminders to the ward member, no action had been taken. As a result, on 25th February 2025, the SHGs and CPs formally prepared a written application. Although they couldn't meet the ward member in person initially, they successfully handed over the application to Mr. Vishal on 23rd March 2025.

Outcome:

Upon receiving the application, Ward Member Mr. Vishal assured the SHGs that he would escalate the matter to higher authorities and that steps would soon be taken to solve the drainage issue once and for all.

Impact:

It serves as an example of how empowered women’s groups and Child parliament can take initiative, organize themselves, and push for accountability from public representatives.

With continued efforts and cooperation, the community of Bhona Islam is hopeful that this issue will be resolved permanently and that a regular maintenance schedule for drainage cleaning will be put in place to ensure better public health and hygiene for all.

Reported by
Aarti