Trajectories of Sanitation and Hygiene practices in Himalayan and Terrain region of Nepal: A Comparative Study

Social Sciences

Sanitation and hygiene remain central to improving public health and reducing disease burden in Nepal. Despite national progress, regional disparities persist, especially between geographically difficult Himalayan regions and the densely populated Terrain plains. This study examined sanitation trajectories across two major ecological zones-Himalayan and Terrain and compared urban and rural differences within each zone. A total 300 respondents participated. With equal representation from the Himalayan (150) and Terrain regions (150), subdivided into urban (75 each) and rural (75 each) areas. Quantitative data were collected using a structured survey covering household sanitation awareness. Findings showed that Terrain urban areas demonstrated the highest sanitation standards, whereas rural Himalayan areas exhibited significant infrastructural challenges. Hygiene practices such as hand washing, menstrual hygiene management, and safe water storage varied by region, with socioeconomic, climatic, and infrastructural factors shaping the differences. The study highlights the need for tailored interventions that consider geographical vulnerabilities and cultural contexts.

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