Jharna Das, a resident of Jhelongja Union in Cox’s Bazar, lost her husband six years ago. Since then, she has been the only guardian for her five daughters and one son, navigating immense challenges daily. Jharna works as an office assistant at a private bank, serving tea to officers and performing various tasks just to make ends meet. Despite her hard work, the family struggles to afford their children’s education while living in a cramped and unsanitary environment.
Recently, hope arrived for Jharna and her family through HYSAWA’s Improved Household Latrine initiative. With tears of relief, Jharna shared, “The sorrow of our home has been long-standing. I’ve always worried about my children’s health and safety. Having these improved latrines brings me immense joy. They now have access to proper sanitation, which is so important for our well-being.”
Her daughter, Prema Dash, a college student, echoed her mother’s sentiments: “Before, the latrine would flood when it rained, making it unbearable to use due to the bad smell. This was very problematic for us girls. Now, with the installation of modern latrines, we feel safer and more comfortable. The latrine even has a separate MHM chamber, which is incredibly helpful for our menstrual health. It’s such a relief. Thanks to HYSAWA!”
Jharna’s resilience and dedication shine through as she continues to care for her family. The improvements in sanitation have not only elevated their quality of life but have also empowered Jharna and her daughters, giving them a newfound sense of dignity and safety.
Case study collected by Mostafa Mohammad Tahan, Media & Communication Officer, HYSAWA, August 2024.