1. Open Defecation Free (ODF) Campaign – Siraha & Rasuwa (2014–2017)
ECARDS-Nepal played a key role in eliminating open defecation in Siraha and Rasuwa through its Open Defecation Free (ODF) Campaign, implemented in partnership with UN-Habitat and the Global Sanitation Fund. Prior to the project, many households in these districts lacked proper sanitation facilities, leading to serious public health issues, including waterborne diseases. The initiative focused on community mobilization, infrastructure development, and hygiene education to ensure that all residents had access to proper toilets.
A major component of the project was the construction of household toilets, bringing Siraha and Rasuwa to 100% toilet coverage. More than 42,000 households participated in the campaign, with ECARDS-Nepal facilitating the distribution of materials, technical support, and awareness programs. The project also engaged local schools and community organizations, ensuring that children and young adults understood the importance of sanitation and proper hygiene practices.
Beyond infrastructure, ECARDS-Nepal implemented behavior change programs to ensure the sustainability of ODF status. The organization trained local community health workers, conducted public sanitation campaigns, and organized workshops to promote long-term hygiene habits. As a result, both districts successfully achieved Open Defecation Free status, significantly improving public health outcomes and reducing sanitation-related diseases.
2. Post-ODF Intervention – Siraha (2019–2020)
Following the success of the Open Defecation Free Campaign, ECARDS-Nepal launched the Post-ODF Intervention project in Siraha to ensure sustainability and further improve sanitation conditions. While many communities had adopted toilet usage, there was a need to enhance sanitation infrastructure and waste management systems. This project focused on developing sustainable WASH practices, upgrading household toilets, and improving overall hygiene standards.
One of the key aspects of the project was the development of 15 model communities, where enhanced sanitation practices were implemented and showcased. These communities served as examples for others to follow, demonstrating the long-term benefits of improved WASH practices. Additionally, ECARDS-Nepal trained community leaders, school teachers, and health workers to ensure that hygiene awareness continued to spread within the population.
To strengthen sanitation infrastructure, ECARDS-Nepal supported the conversion of single-pit latrines into double-pit latrines, making toilets more durable and environmentally sustainable. The organization also conducted workshops on waste management and water safety, helping communities understand the importance of proper disposal and clean water consumption. This project was crucial in maintaining the district’s ODF status and ensuring long-term public health improvements.
3. Earthquake Recovery Project – WASH Sector – Dolakha (2016–2019)
After the devastating 2015 earthquake in Nepal, many rural areas faced a complete breakdown of water and sanitation infrastructure. ECARDS-Nepal implemented the Earthquake Recovery Project – WASH Sector in Dolakha, one of the worst-hit districts, to restore clean drinking water systems, improve sanitation, and provide hygiene awareness programs. The project focused on rebuilding WASH infrastructure while ensuring that communities were better prepared for future disasters.
The initiative covered 1,250 households, supporting the reconstruction of drinking water supply systems, public water taps, and sanitation facilities. ECARDS-Nepal trained local masons and plumbers to ensure that newly built structures were earthquake-resistant and sustainable. The organization also facilitated the construction of family toilets for 62 ultra-poor households and built school toilets, ensuring that children had access to proper sanitation.
Beyond infrastructure, ECARDS-Nepal emphasized hygiene promotion and behavioral change. The project included awareness sessions on handwashing, household waste management, and water purification techniques. Additionally, 60 local plumbers were trained to maintain and repair water systems, ensuring long-term sustainability. This project played a crucial role in helping communities recover from the disaster and rebuild essential sanitation facilities for a healthier future.
4. Capacity Building on Total Sanitation and Behavioral Change – Arghakhanchi (2012–2014)
In Arghakhanchi, ECARDS-Nepal implemented a project focused on capacity building for sanitation and behavioral change. This initiative aimed to improve sanitation infrastructure, promote hygiene awareness, and engage local stakeholders in WASH planning. Many communities in the district faced poor hygiene conditions, lack of proper toilets, and limited access to clean drinking water, leading to increased health risks.
The project mobilized schools, communities, and government bodies to work together in promoting sanitation. ECARDS-Nepal trained community health volunteers, schoolteachers, and local officials on effective hygiene practices. The organization also provided technical support for the construction of toilets and safe water supply systems, ensuring that communities had access to improved sanitation facilities.
One of the most impactful aspects of the project was its education campaigns in schools. ECARDS-Nepal developed interactive learning materials, posters, and public workshops to teach children about handwashing, water conservation, and disease prevention. By empowering schools and local organizations to take charge of sanitation efforts, the project created a long-term impact on public health and hygiene behaviors in Arghakhanchi.