Impact of Covid-19 on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (Wash) in Urban Areas: A Study of Delhi Slums

Aims and Objectives: The research aims to identify barriers to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) practices faced by different segments of the population in Delhi slums. It will also examine the impact of COVID-19 on WASH practices among casual wage earners, migrant workers, and other vulnerable groups.

Methodology: The study employed a mixed-method approach, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Primary data was collected through surveys of 507 households across 12 slums in Delhi. Additionally, five Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted in each slum, totaling 60 FGDs, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) practices.

Main Findings:

1. Water Adequacy:
   • Casual and self-employed workers experienced reduced water adequacy due to increased home presence after job losses, while regular employees saw no significant change. Increased use of contaminated water led to a rise in water-borne diseases, particularly affecting casual, wage-dependent households.
2. Garbage Collection:
   • Factors such as education level, household/social group, and external intervention influenced garbage collection and disposal practices. Reliance on community dustbins or vans was linked to education level and slum profile.
3. Sanitation Facilities:
   • There was an increase in personal toilet usage and a decrease in community toilet usage during COVID-19.
4. Menstrual Hygiene:
   • The widespread non-availability of sanitary pads during the initial COVID-19 lockdown phases due to supply chain disruptions led to the use of unhygienic alternatives, posing health risks.
5. Handwashing Practices:
   • Handwashing frequency increased after COVID-19, but casual workers and petty self-employed households had lower soap usage due to affordability issues stemming from job and income loss.

Policy Implications:

1. Community-Level Development:
   • Establish community monitoring systems for WASH and hygiene practices.
   • Encourage collective initiatives to improve WASH services.
2. Role of Self-Help Groups:
   • Develop strong group mechanisms through community self-help groups to influence and improve household WASH practices.

This study emphasizes the critical need for targeted interventions to address the WASH challenges faced by vulnerable populations in urban slums, especially in the wake of COVID-19. Comprehensive community engagement and policy measures are essential for improving WASH services and ensuring better health outcomes for these populations.