Waterborne Disease Meets Its Match in Jharkhand

A community in Simdega district of Jharkhand received 14 BioSand water filters in August 2012. The filters were provided free of cost by Believers Church Ranchi Diocese.

The local Believers Church worker collaborated with Pr. Dilip to organize the distribution program and raise awareness about the importance of pure water. Many dignitaries and villagers gathered together for the event.

The crowd learned how simple it is to purify water through BioSand Water filters. The Believers Church team spoke about the necessity of clean water for drinking, cooking and washing; explaining the dangers of bacteria-infested water.

Amarnath Baraik, a farmer, received one of the water filters. He shared about the pathetic condition of his family before the distribution. “I barely remember a single week or month passing by for us without visiting a doctor. I and my family were often exposed to waterborne disease because we were forced to use dirty water from an open well for cooking and drinking.

Thus we suffered from stomachaches, jaundice, typhoid and diarrhea. At the same time we were compelled to use open pond, river and well water for bathing. Due to bathing in filthy water, skin infections occurred on our bodies. Other families also suffered badly due to the use of contaminated and dirty water. My whole village will assert this truth.”

BioSand water filters are changing this dismal standard of living. Along with water filters, the village also received health and hygiene training. This has already worked to significantly lower the incidence of illnesses caused by impure water. Just like in hundreds of other villages, Believers Church is helping this village break free from waterborne disease and the medical expenses that come with it. BioSand water filters are making a daily difference in the lives of this community.