Foot-operated handwashing units in slums as positive cases rise to 55 in Dharavi

New Delhi: As COVID-19 cases in India's largest slum Dharavi climbed to 55, including 7 deaths, the Centre on Tuesday released a guideline for maintaining hygiene and sanitation in densely populated areas during the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

The guideline, which has been issued by the office of Principal Scientific Adviser to the government of India, has suggested installing "foot-operated hand-washing stations" at all public areas to enable residents to wash their hands frequently.

"These hand-washing stations will control the spread of the disease while reducing amount of water used. To eliminate the use of soap, chlorine can be added to water," it said.

"These guidelines are created specifically for areas where toilets, washing or bathing facilities are shared," the handbook said.

As per the guidelines, those with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, chills, dry cough, running nose etc should report to the nearest ASHA, Anganwadi or frontline worker.

"Those living in close proximity with others should distance themselves as far as possible, ventilate the room with a fan and an open window. Always use face cover when in close proximity," the guidelines state. "The most effective way of containing the disease in densely populated areas, where common facilities such as bathrooms and toilets are shared, is to implement measures that can catalyse behaviour change and promote strict adherence to hygiene and sanitation practices," said the handbook that comprises f detailed guidelines with pictorial representation.

The handbook has also suggested some do-it-yourself variations on portable handwashing stations.

Notably, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has earmarked 29 containment zones and six Red zones, which reported over 15 COVID-19 positive cases in Dharavi.

The civic body has also quarantined 2,184 Dharavi residents and tested 138 high-risk contacts and 3,450 low-risk contacts of the patients from the slum so far.

The BMC authorities are also ensuring that the quarantined people get essential supplies such as food and medicine.