Funds to Convert Dry Latrines

In consultation with technical experts technological options in the form of twin-pit latrines, septic tanks, and bio-digesters including underground sewerage systems were made available as recourse and alternatives for dry latrines for stopping the obnoxious practice of manual scavenging. Integrated Low Cost Sanitation Scheme (ILCS) provides for conversion/ construction of low cost sanitation units through sanitary two pit pour flush latrines with superstructures and appropriate variations to suit local conditions (area specific latrines).

No funds were sought by Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation from international agencies for conversion of dry latrines and sufficient funds for conversion of dry latrines under the Integrated Low Cost Sanitation Scheme were earmarked for the States of Bihar, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh, which reported existence of dry latrine. Details of funds sanctioned on the basis of dry latrines reported and funds released to these states are given below:

Name of State	No of dry latrines for conversion	Fund sought (Rs. in crores)	Fund released (Rs. in crores)
Uttar Pradesh	238253	181.66	144.56 (released + 37.10 adjusted against unspent balance with the State)
Bihar	3545	3.06	3.06 adjusted against unspent balance with the State)
Uttarakhand	1613	1.28	1.28

The states of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand have reported utilization of Rs. 98.53 crore and Rs. 0.32 crore respectively. All the three states namely, Bihar, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh, which had reported existence of dry latrines have committed to complete the conversion task by 31.3.2011 and declare themselves dry latrine free.