With the kind support of Stichting Nederland Nepal (The Netherlands-Nepal Foundation), Phase
I & II of the project “Life Line Shelters” have brought transformative changes to the Musahar
community in Bayalbas, Sarlahi. Till the date, we have successfully built 28 toilets & installed
two water taps, offering a lifeline to one of Nepal’s most deprived communities.
The urgency of this intervention is evident—families had begun using the toilets even before
doors are installed, resorting to temporary coverings. This desperate need speaks volumes about
their struggle for dignity and hygiene. Until now, open defecation was the only option, leaving
women, the elderly, and physically handicapped individuals in particularly vulnerable situations.
Ms. Renu (name changed), a resident of Bayalbas, shared her ordeal: “We do before the
sunshine. Even if we feel like doing in the daytime, we have to wait till night. We’ve already
developed a habit of holding on, but when we are sick, it is so difficult.” The lack of basic
sanitation had also forced pregnant women and new mothers to eat less, fearing the need to use
the toilet during the day.
In 2019, Nepal was declared an open defecation-free country by then (and current) Prime
Minister K.P. Oli. While this created an impression that Nepal had taken the lead in sanitation
efforts within South Asia, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Many marginalized
communities remain far from achieving proper sanitation.
Access to clean toilets is not just about hygiene—it is about dignity, safety, and better health.
This initiative marks a crucial step in restoring those basic rights to the Mushar community. As
we celebrate this milestone, we urge continued support to ensure every household has access to
safe and functional sanitation facilities.
[The Musahar community in Nepal is a Dalit community primarily found in the Terai region,
which is the southern part of the country. They are known for their traditional occupation as rat
catchers, which has led to their name, Musahar, meaning “rat-riders” or “rat eaters”.]
