Water forms a connecting link between the ecology and economics in the Nilgiris. The Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve is an important water catchment zone in southern India and four of the major rivers of south India originate in this region - the Bhavani, Moyar, Kabini and Chaliyar river. Since 2001, Keystone has made active leaps into the study of Water and Sanitation in the region - defining new approaches to understand hill watersheds, both in the implementation and action-research process. Keystone’s work on this aspect has ranged from education, surveys, scientific strategy and informed implementation and developing community based water management systems. Going beyond Protected Areas to semi-urban communities in Tamil Nadu, the work within this subject addresses crucial human rights and public health issues that impact well-being and sustainable development. Closing gaps in semi-urban sewage systems with decentralised fecal sludge treatment solutions, and renovating toilets and toilet containment structures to improve efficiency. Advocating for improved working conditions for sanitation workers, and providing healthcare consultations and services to combat workplace hazards. This collection contains notes, reports, publications, posters, photos, videos and other knowledge materials from the various projects and engagements with indigenous and local communities on this subject.
Visit the Institutional Pathways Exhibit on Water Resources for the detailed origin story related to this work. View the media items on this subject below.
