Newsletters

Content courtesy: IRHA

The carnage and devastation in the aftermath of a tsun

• New Water Policy by 2011
  Nine years after the last document, work is on to put in shape a new water policy for India that will by the end of the year not just lay down a framework for the allocation of water but also take into account the impact of climate change and the remedial steps that need to be taken.

• Japan will extend Rs 2,557 Crore aid
  Japan is to extend an aid of Rs. 2,557 crore to India for three projects through its Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) window. The projects pertain to cleaning the river Yamuna in the national capital Delhi, crop diversification promotion in Himachal Pradesh and biodiversity conservation and greening in Tamil Nadu

• Access and behavioral outcome indicators for water, sanitation, and hygiene by USAID Hygiene Improvement Project
  The document highlights the evidence that has accumulated based on the reliable assessment and validation of hygiene practices – practices that are critical for the prevention of diarrheal diseases and the reduction of child morbidity and mortality.

Main highlights in this update:

The International Rainwater Harvesting Alliance newsletter for February 2011. Newsletter focuses on all activities concerning rainwater harvesting.

• Potential water availability from rainwater harvesting in India
  Rainwater harvesting can play an important role in supplying urban dwellers with water. The impermeable roof surfaces that are widespread within a city, lend themselves perfectly to the collection of rainwater.

The India WASH Forum newsletter for January 2011. It is an open platform for engagement on contemporary issues, for an independent credible voice in the water, sanitation and hygiene sector.

• Recommendations on water and sanitation services to urban poor
  The group came up with a list of prioritised issues that need immediate attention if the urban poor were to be provided with sustainable and equitable water and sanitation services.
  
  
• Water resources are under stress of depletion as well as denial of access for the poor
  Drinking water needs are met primarily from ground water. Except for the large metros that suck away water from rivers, most small towns in India depend on ground water supply.

The India WASH Forum newsletter for November 2010. It is an open platform for engagement on contemporary issues, for an independent credible voice in the water, sanitation and hygiene sector.

• Recent estimates of drinking water and sanitation status of India
  As per the estimate, India has achieved a coverage of 68% rural population having access to an individual household toilet.
  
  
• Urban sanitation in India: life after Common Wealth Games
  The Commonwealth Games generated a media blitz recently. Unfortunately, instead of highlighting the sorry state of sanitation in India, the issue was trivialized in the media.

The SANDRP newsletter for December 2010 - January 2011 continues its critical analysis of dams, irrigation and related issues:

• Water Crisis in Ramsar Wetlands of India
• India dodged UN to get climate credits?