Every year 15th of October is observed as Global Handwashing Day to raise awareness and understanding about the importance of handwashing with soap as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives. The observance was established by the Global Handwashing Partnership in 2008.
As a platform for engaging various governments, non-governments and local stakeholders to ensure access to WASH facilities among the urban population in Maharashtra, the Maharashtra Urban WASH-ES Coalition celebrates Global Handwashing Day through a week-long initiatives by engaging various key stakeholders. This involves encouraging innovations in WASH for community and public toilets, promotion of behavioural change by disseminating proper handwashing procedures amongst various groups including children, and facilitation for setting up handwashing stations in dense urban areas.
