World Toilet Day, observed on Tuesday, highlights a critical yet often overlooked issue: the global sanitation crisis.
Nearly billions of people lack access to safe sanitation, leading to severe health risks, environmental damage, and loss of dignity, particularly for women and children. Every year, diseases resulting from poor sanitation claim the lives of 315,000 children.
This year’s theme, “Sanitation for Peace,” emphasizes how proper sanitation contributes to healthier, more stable communities, protects human rights, and fosters progress through better infrastructure and governance.
In Bangladesh, progress has been made, but the struggle continues. According to a report by Dr Tanvir Ahmed from BUET, less than 1% of people still practice open defecation, yet only 5% of the population has access to safely managed sanitation.
Rapid urban growth and the devastating impacts of natural disasters have made it even harder to overcome these challenges. But amidst these struggles, there are those who are stepping up to make a difference.
Harpic, Bangladesh’s leading toilet cleaner brand, is on a mission to improve hygiene and promote better sanitation practices. For them, hygiene is not a luxury; it’s a basic human right.
In a country where millions still face poor sanitation, Harpic is going beyond just providing toilet cleaners. They are transforming lives by improving health, dignity, and quality of life, particularly for those in need. Their mission extends beyond products—it’s about education, support, and empowering people to live healthier, safer lives.
A powerful example of Harpic’s commitment is their partnership with the SAJIDA Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports vulnerable communities. Together, they’re focusing on a group of unsung heroes: sanitation workers. These hardworking individuals keep Bangladesh clean, but their jobs are dangerous, and their health is often at risk. Recognizing this, Harpic launched a program called the “Harpic Healthcare Card” that offers health insurance and discounted medical services at over 250 hospitals, ensuring that 1,000 sanitation workers and their families can access the healthcare they deserve.
Harpic also understands that education is key to shaping a healthier future. That’s why they created a fun, educational comic book, “Dipu-Tushi’s Hygiene Adventure,” to teach children about sanitation, healthy eating, and pollution control. By nurturing these habits early, Harpic is helping raise a generation that values hygiene and clean environments.
On this World Toilet Day, we are reminded that sanitation is a right, not a privilege. Harpic’s efforts show that small actions can lead to big changes. With commitment and care, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and safer Bangladesh for all.