Access to clean water significantly impacts female health, nutrition, and economic empowerment, particularly in rural areas. The study examines the manifold effects of water accessibility on the lives of women in Kaudihar Block, Prayagraj, India. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through household surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with local women. The findings reveal that inadequate access to water exacerbates health issues such as waterborne diseases and increases the physical burden on women, adversely affecting maternal health. Nutritional outcomes are compromised, as limited water availability restricts household food preparation and kitchen gardening. Economically, the time spent enticing water reduces opportunities for women to engage in income-generating activities, hindering their financial independence. Generally, water scarcity reinforces gender inequalities by limiting women's mobility and participation in decision-making processes. Even though existing government interventions, significant gaps remain in infrastructure, maintenance, and policy implementation. This study underscores the urgent need for gender-sensitive policies and community-driven initiatives to improve water access. Recommendations include implementing sustainable water management systems, launching awareness campaigns, and involving women in local water governance. By addressing these issues, the study contributes to the broader discourse on achieving sustainable development goals related to health, gender equality, and water and sanitation.

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The Effect of Water Access on Female Health, Nutrition and Economic Empowerment—A Case Study of Kaudihar Block, Prayagraj, India

  • Mariya Hasnat,
  • Ambrina Sardar Khan

摘要

Access to clean water significantly impacts female health, nutrition, and economic empowerment, particularly in rural areas. The study examines the manifold effects of water accessibility on the lives of women in Kaudihar Block, Prayagraj, India. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through household surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with local women. The findings reveal that inadequate access to water exacerbates health issues such as waterborne diseases and increases the physical burden on women, adversely affecting maternal health. Nutritional outcomes are compromised, as limited water availability restricts household food preparation and kitchen gardening. Economically, the time spent enticing water reduces opportunities for women to engage in income-generating activities, hindering their financial independence. Generally, water scarcity reinforces gender inequalities by limiting women's mobility and participation in decision-making processes. Even though existing government interventions, significant gaps remain in infrastructure, maintenance, and policy implementation. This study underscores the urgent need for gender-sensitive policies and community-driven initiatives to improve water access. Recommendations include implementing sustainable water management systems, launching awareness campaigns, and involving women in local water governance. By addressing these issues, the study contributes to the broader discourse on achieving sustainable development goals related to health, gender equality, and water and sanitation.