| Water and Sanitation in Uttar Pradesh | |
| Headerstyle: | background:red |
| Header1: | Data |
| Label2: | Access to an improved water source |
| Data2: | 99.2% (2019-21) |
| Label3: | Access to improved sanitation |
| Data3: | 68.7% (2019-21) |
| Label4: | Access to basic drinking water service |
| Data4: | 98% (2019-21) |
| Label5: | Percentage of Wastewater treated |
| Data5: | 39% |
| Header14: | Budget (in crores) |
| Label15: | Annual Budget |
| Data15: | 28,054 |
Water supply and sanitation in Uttar Pradesh showcase both significant recent achievements and persistent challenges. Historically, the state has fallen below the national average on critical metrics, with sanitation and water access becoming focal points in political discussions, particularly in regions like Bundelkhand. Issues such as unequal resource distribution and water contamination present ongoing challenges. However, government-led initiatives, often in partnership with private sector entities and grassroots organizations, are actively working to improve access to safe water and sanitation facilities. Despite progress, challenges remain, especially in rural areas and urban slums, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts and innovative solutions.
As India's most populous state with a population exceeding 200 million people, Uttar Pradesh faces significant challenges in managing its water resources and ensuring access to safe sanitation facilities. Over the centuries, communities in Uttar Pradesh have grappled with the importance of water management and sanitation practices.[1]
According to the National Family Health Survey 2 (NFHS2), conducted in Uttar Pradesh, only 85.6% of the population had access to an improved water source, while only 26.7% had access to a latrine. However, significant progress has been made since then. Subsequent surveys indicate that access to improved water sources has increased substantially to 99.2%, and access to latrines has also shown a remarkable improvement, now reaching 68.7% of the population.[2]
Despite significant progress in improving access to sanitation facilities, Uttar Pradesh still grapples with open defecation, particularly in rural areas, where approximately 29% of the population continues to defecate in the open. Additionally, the state faces challenges such as water scarcity in many parts, further complicating efforts to ensure adequate sanitation and hygiene practices.[3] "A study by the Centre for Science and Environment 2019 in some cities of Uttar Pradesh shows that most (about 80%) containment systems are often not connected to functional soak pits."[4]
https://upgwd.gov.in/MediaGallery/SWPUP2020DraftFeb20.pdf
https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022-09/Waste-Water-A4_20092022.pdf