Community Health and Transportation Survey
On March 24, 2025, the heads of the AICUF Society of Loreto College, Kolkata conducted a survey in Boichtala Dhapa village, which is located in the eastern fringes of Kolkata. Dhapa is located near the Parama Island on the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass, on the eastern side of Kolkata. The Eastern Metropolitan Bypass, Beleghata, and Tangra are on the west; Basanti Highway and Bantala are on the south; and Chingrighata is on the north. The closest landmarks near Dhapa are the ITC Sonar hotel and Silver Spring housing on the west side, Milan Mela ground or the permanent trade fair ground and Science City on the south side, and Mathpukur five-point crossing on the west side.
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation is responsible for providing basic civic facilities and amenities to the residents of the place, including Water, Drainage, Sanitation, Garbage Collection, and Anti-Malaria and Health Care programmes. The Calcutta Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) provides electricity to the area as well as to entire Kolkata as the sole electricity provider focusing on identifying key social issues impacting the community.
A striking observation was the prevalence of stagnant water bodies surrounding numerous residential areas. These pools serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other diseases. The marketplace presented another concern, resembling an uncontrolled dumping site, where waste accumulation was evident. This unhygienic environment raises serious concerns about the potential spread of infections and illnesses.
During conversations with the women of Boichtala, a serious concern emerged regarding transportation. They expressed considerable hardship due to the isolated location of the village, requiring them to travel to a bypass road for essential services such as banking and transportation. This dependence on the bypass road creates a significant burden, particularly for those with limited mobility or financial resources.
Interestingly, when questioned about the health risks associated with the stagnant water, the women displayed a marked lack of concern, seemingly dismissing the potential impact on their well-being. This disinterest in immediate environmental hazards suggests a possible gap in awareness regarding public health and sanitation. It highlights the need for targeted interventions that not only address the practical challenges of transportation but also raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy living environment. It also indicates that any social intervention must prioritise education alongside practical solutions.
