The writer (“More than just the counting game”, November 20) has raised a pressing issue of callous development of septic tanks, especially in rural India, which has jeopardised the health of people. This has led to severe contamination of groundwater due to sewage water percolation into aquifers. This could be one reason why non-communicable diseases are increasing in rural India. With sludge treatment facilities largely unavailable in rural areas, the need of the hour is for a holistic and participatory approach.
Gagan Pratap,
Noida, Uttar Pradesh