The NPHA, which conducted rapid study in all three districts of the Valley -- Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Lalitpur -- following the devastating earthquake, which claimed over 7, 000 lives and injured thousands has found open defecation and poor waste management rampant in all the three districts.The study shows that people of Kathmandu Valley are highly vulnerable to water-borne diseases like diarrhea, fever, headache, common cold and other psychological problems.
The report stated that the chances of epidemic outbreak in Gongobu and Machhapokhari areas are high as dead bodies have still not been managed. The study shows that toilet management and waste management has become a major nuisance.
The NPHA said that it has found poor waste management in Tilganga, Narayanchaur, Gangabu, Thankot, Balambu, Gangahal, Nayabasti of Baudha, Tinchuli, Narayantar and Chuchhepati of Kathmandu district. The association has suggested to the authorities to dismantle old toilets, spray phenol and bleaching powder in polluted areas. The association has also suggested the government to provide integrated health services and launch awareness campaigns. The NPHA has suggested the authorities to carry out regular surveillance to prevent possible outbreak of an epidemic.
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