INTERNATIONAL PLANNING EXPERTS TRAINED ON CITY-WIDE SANITATION PLANNING

In its persistent efforts to disseminate knowledge on Decentralised Basic Need Services, CDD Society conducted a training programme on Citywide Sanitation Planning in Bangalore from May 29th–31st 2012.

City Sanitation Plans (CSPs) identify the sanitary needs of the marginalised and poorer groups of urban areas and serve as an essential tool for improving the livelihood of urban residents.

The training programme was conducted in the Centre for Advanced Sanitation Solutions (CASS) and attracted twelve planning experts from India, Nepal, Tanzania and Afghanistan, representing NGOs, Government Agencies and Universities.

During the three-day residential programme, the participants were introduced to the concept and methodology of developing city-wide sanitation plans. They were given an orientation on different decentralised sanitation approaches that can be integrated with centralised technology options for 100% sanitation coverage in a city. Effective measures, in order to involve the community in the whole process, have also been discussed and illustrated with concrete case studies from India.

 With interactive sessions, case study analyses and hands-on training the programme used a broad methodology to upgrade participant knowledge. An experienced team of active planning practitioners and experts from CDD Society and private and governmental institutes facilitated a healthy knowledge exchange. Group exercises under real-life-conditions enabled the participants to acquire the skill of preparing a citywide sanitation plan. Feedback sessions and open discussions enhanced the practical sessions of the training programme.

The participants appreciated the training and expressed their resolve to use the knowledge and skills gained at CDD Society’s programme to improve the sanitation situation of the people in their countries.