On-Plot Sanitation in Low-Income Urban Communities: A review of literature (WEDC)

Document reports findings from Phase 1 (May - August 1992) of an Overseas Development Administration/DFID funded project ) concerning on-plot sanitation in low income areas of urban Africa and Asia. Results from the project's two main tasks - a review of relevant literature and postal surveys (which were carried out simultaneously) are discussed.

More than three hundred documents were examined in the review and material relevant to on-plot urban sanitation has been summarized in sections dealing with technical, health and social, and management matters. Alternative technologies are critically reviewed, with special attention given to the relative advantages and disadvantages of each option. Many social and management factors that have influenced the success of projects and programmes have been noted. However, the literature search indicated that little has been written about the sustainability of on-plot sanitation nor its relevance to urban conditions. In particular, there is little evidence of an objective examination of performance, or whether operation and maintenance procedures were followed over a period of years. The postal survey indicated what was known locally, but the answers to questions are in most cases based solely on the subjective impressions of the respondent. A summary of survey replies is provided, and information relevant to technology choice, absence of latrine, emptying practices, children's latrines, and household payments is briefly reviewed. From information gained through the literature search, postal survey and investigator's observations in developing countries, seven topics which require more detailed investigation have been identified for Phase 2 of the project.