The search for appropriate latrine solutions for flood-prone areas of Bangladesh

Abstract

Proper excreta management in flood- and cyclone-prone areas of Bangladesh is a challenge. The appropriateness of latrine technology depends on groundwater table, geographical context and acceptance by the community. Field trials by Oxfam GB found that raised pit latrines are more appropriate in flood- and cyclone-prone areas, and more widely accepted by the community, than other technologies. In addition, urine diversion and Ecosan latrines were also felt to be appropriate and acceptable in certain contexts. To reduce the risk to health, a pump was promoted, instead of manual desludging of latrine pits, and met with a favourable response from the community and sweepers.