Measuring the Health Impact of Bio-sand Filters
Gramin Vikas Vigyan Samiti (GRAVIS), Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Contact: Dr. Prakash Tyagi
March 2016 –March 2018
Budget: Total, Rs.299,000
In connection with two bio-sand water filter projects with GRAVIS, we funded a detailed study by GRAVIS to measure the impact of bio-sand filters. 200 households in 10 villages in western Rajasthan were surveyed, using a questionnaire composed by GRAVIS with our help: once when the filters were installed, and again a year later. Additional information was obtained from focus groups discussions in each village, and monthly health assessments of the participating families were conducted. Among the principal findings: the filters are over 90% effective in removing coliform bacteria from the water; their owners almost all find them easy to use and maintain and are pleased with the quality of the filtered water; and there has been a reduction of water-borne diseases of around 65% among filter users. The detailed results, along with extensive background information, have been written up in the document “Measuring the health impact of bio-sand filters and dissemination of technology,” which is being distributed to NGOs, government agencies, and local administrators. (It is also accessible through our web site.) GRAVIS presented the results at a public event in January, and they held two 2-day training workshops for the staff of 20 other NGOs to promote the spread of filter usage.