There is no environmental health without public health: exploring the links between sanitation and waterbody health in Bengaluru, India

Abstract

Over 70 per cent of India’s surface water is polluted by human excreta and other waste and less than 35 per cent of urban wastewater is treated. This poses a severe risk to public and environmental health. Urban waterbody rejuvenation in India often focuses on aesthetic improvements rather than addressing its systemic interdependencies with sanitation. This paper establishes these systemic links through a mixed-methods study using water-quality testing and stakeholder interviews in the city of Bengaluru, India. A conceptual system dynamics model of technical, social, institutional and environmental factors is developed. Results show that sewage leaks into lakes via stormwater drains are a major pollution pathway, among others. Three system levers for positive change have been identified: coordination of government entities, adequate faecal sludge management and strong citizen involvement. Citywide inclusive sanitation (CWIS) is proposed as an approach to provide leverage and solve the intertwined issues of public and environmental health.