The Rest Room Revolution
Toilets can change the world: That’s what Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak is absolutely sure of. Since many years the 66-year old sociologist, living in New-Delhi, has dedicated his life to his dream: Toilets for everyone. The sanitary circumstances millions of Indians have to face every day are literally stinking to high heaven: Toilets are rare in the land with 1.1 billion inhabitants. And wherever are toilets, people at the down side of the society have to clean them with bare hands. An ignominious work which additionally increases the risk of becoming dangerously sick.
It is Pathaks wish to put an end to these unsustainable circumstances, and all his energy is given to this ambitious aim: He has invented a number of toilet systems, which are simple and cheap but highly efficient. Also he has founded an organization, which offers education to the former toilet-cleaners and so gives them a chance to change their future. His restless engagement has brought him international credit, and even the pope has welcomed him. The latest distinction was given to him by the highly respected “Stockholm International Water Institute”. Our report is not only showing Pathaks effort for improving the sanitary standards, it also shows the hard daily routine of Indian toilet-cleaners.
Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak
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