Impact of Sanitation on Improving Quality of Life: A Case Study of Cuttack, Odisha

Abstract

The rapid rate of urbanization is posing significant effects on the urban environment thereby affecting its livability. With the increasing urbanization, it is important to ensure that the services which are being provided in the city are satisfying the needs of the people. Out of all the physical infrastructures and services being provided in the city, sanitation services are those which play a vital role in determining the livability of the city and the quality of life of the people. Cuttack being one of the oldest cities has developed organically, that is without any proper planning and management guidelines. Because of this, the city faces many issues out of which, the sanitation issues are of great concern because they are affecting the city’s urban environment and can degrade the physical environment. This study thus aims in understanding the inter-relationship between sanitation and quality of life as well as the role of sanitation in improving the QoL. The study puts emphasis on the two aspects of sanitation, that are: technical and non-technical aspects. Data related to these aspects were collected using primary and secondary sources and after analysis, the reason behind the sanitation issues are identified. The study identifies different strategies which can help in improving the existing sanitation infrastructures, service delivery, and satisfy the needs of current and future population.