Overview
The Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) and Muslim Aid UK Bangladesh, and CBF are working together to improve the lives of urban slum dwellers in Rajshahi City Corporation, Bangladesh, through the Enhance Emergency Responses through Social and Economic Protection project. The project, funded by the Climate Bridge Fund, aims to address the new normal situation of COVID-19 in the area. A baseline survey uncovered low standards in WASH, education, public health, nutrition, and livelihoods, as well as limited knowledge about health, water, sanitation, hygiene, livelihood options, and climate change adaptation. However, the study surveyed 396 slum dwellers in 14 vulnerable slums of Rajshahi city corporation, revealing low educational status and migratory status. The average monthly income was 10,243 BDT, and 97.5% of the population was growing. Both government and non-government organizations constructed cluster latrines, but only 13.6% used them due to hygiene issues. 74.7% were aware of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 97.2% covered with vaccinations. Hotel hygiene practices were mostly known, and 12.9% received multi-purpose cash grants. It was also found that most were physically challenged, and natural disasters significantly affected their daily lives by the pandemic situation.
