XML FeedsIndia needs sanitation policy reform to enhance public health
By CostBenefit on Oct 29, 2009 | In Water, Health, Academic Study/Journal Article, Economic Development and Green Jobs, Waste & Recycling, India, Regulatory Analysis, Savings, Cost-Benefit Analysis, Costs and Benefits, Wastewater | Send feedback »
Link: http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/content~a916209298
Abstract: Govindasamy Agoramoorthy and Minna J. Hsu investigate the impact of 100 newly built toilets in villages across Dahod District (Gujarat State, India) by a non-government agency during 2005-2007. The toilets significantly reduced not only the cost of medical treatments but also the loss of wages induced by sanitation-related diseases. Money saved from sanitation illnesses for one person for a period of two years could cover the cost of a toilet. It costs USD 200 to build a cost-effective toilet, but the Government of India's 25% subsidy since January 2009 covers only USD 50. The authors recommend increasing the subsidy for toilets so that future health care to treat sanitation illnesses can be significantly reduced.
by Govindasamy Agoramoorthy 1 and Minna J. Hsu 2
1. College of Environmental and Health Sciences, Tajen University, Yanpu, Pingtung 907, Taiwan; Sadguru Foundation, Dahod, Gujarat State, India
2. Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan
Journal of Economic Policy Reform via Informa World www.InformaWorld.com
Volume 12, Issue 4; December, 2009; pages 333-342
DOI: 10.1080/17487870903314625
