“If this pond belongs to everyone,
then why isn’t cleaning everyone’s responsibility too?”
Now the pond water no longer smells. Women no longer hesitate. Children bathe in clean water and go to school.
Today, in Foskadanga village in the state of West Bengal, when someone passes by the pond, they don’t just see the shine of water – they see the courage of the village women, the laughter of children, and the unity of a community that brought a lifeless, dirty pond back to life.
A Daily Struggle No One Spoke About
But just a few months ago, things were very different.
“Every month felt like serving a punishment,” says Radha Devi, around thirty-five years old, a resident of Foskadanga. Waking up at four every morning, carrying a bucket to that old pond had become her routine.
But behind that routine was a deep pain. “During menstruation, it became even worse,” Radha shares. “The water was so dirty that even washing clothes felt difficult, let alone bathing. The body is already in discomfort, and on top of that this dirty water… it felt like a punishment.”
Radha was not alone. This was the story of every woman in the village.
The truth was – no one had even spoken about cleaning the pond for years. Slowly, it had filled with garbage, sludge, and a foul smell.
When Silence Broke, Action Began
“Everyone uses the water, but no one considers the pond their own…”
This came up during a “Chuppi Todo Baithak (Break the Silence Meeting)” in the village.
When the pond was discussed, many women spoke together – “We all use the water, but when it comes to cleaning, everyone steps back.”
That’s where the change began. Everyone present in the meeting decided that the pond would be cleaned – and that they would do it together.
A Collective Effort Without Wages
“No one asked for wages, no one made excuses…”
Some picked up shovels, some carried buckets. Some cleared the bushes, others removed the sludge.
Community Cleaning Pond in Foskadanga Village
The effort continued for days. The pond was deepened. The area around it was cleaned. Waste was removed. And the best part – everything was done together by the villagers.
Restored Pond in Foskadanga Village
Today, that same old pond in Foskadanga has come back to life. The water is clean now. Women go there without hesitation – to bathe, to wash clothes. During menstruation, they no longer feel the fear they once did.
Now, the village follows a new rule – collective cleaning is done every three months. A village committee has been formed, with both women and men as members. This committee ensures the upkeep of the pond and that no one pollutes it again.
More Than Just Water: A Shift in Mindset
When the women of the village spoke up, it was not just about menstruation or water – it was about breaking a deep social silence.
The pond is no longer just a source of water. It has become a reflection of the village’s journey of change.
Be part of this movement
For over two decades, Goonj has facilitated thousands of such conversations, sparking action-led solutions where communities take charge of their own challenges. Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
