Srinagar, March 05: Malhotra Director General Rural Sanitation, J&K Anoo Malhotra on Tuesday inaugurated a day-long capacity building workshop on Faecal Sludge Management (FSM) in Srinagar.
Secretary Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj, Tariq Ahmad Zargar Director Rural Development Department Kashmir, Shabir Ahmad Bhat and Deputy Director Rural Sanitation, Kashmir Altaf Hussain were present on the occassion.
Speaking on the occasion Malhotra said Effective Faecal Sludge Management (FSM) is pivotal in ensuring public health and environmental sustainability by promoting the safe collection, treatment, and disposal or reuse of faecal sludge.
“ It is imperative for communities to adopt responsible FSM practices, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation infrastructure,” She said, while extending warm welcome to all the participating officers, emphasizing the significance of collective efforts in maintaining the ODF Plus status.
DG said the workshop aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of district-level officers from the Rural Development Department and Housing & Urban Development Department, bringing together key stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities associated with FSM and reinforcing the importance of sustaining the Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus status.
The day's agenda comprised several informative sessions, each focusing on different aspects of Faecal Sludge Management. These interactive sessions encouraged participants to share their feedback and were characterized by their proactive engagement.
The sessions begun with the issues and challenges with respect to FSM in Rural areas, where participants actively shared their experiences and provided valuable insights. The participants gained insights into various toilet typologies and their operational mechanisms, highlighting the importance of understanding the diverse needs of communities. The interactive nature of the session facilitated lively discussions and exchange of ideas.
This session delved into the strategic planning required at the district level to address FSM effectively. It underscored the significance of long-term planning and collaboration among stakeholders for sustainable FSM practices. Participants actively contributed their perspectives on planning and implementation strategies.
The final session explored the technological advancements and options available for establishing faecal sludge treatment plants. Participants were introduced to innovative solutions aimed at improving treatment efficiency and environmental sustainability. Their proactive engagement in exploring technological options showcased their commitment to advancing FSM initiatives.
The workshop served as a platform for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and collaborative action towards achieving comprehensive FSM goals. It is hoped that the insights gained, and discussions held during the workshop will catalyze positive changes and drive progress in FSM initiatives across the region.
