RIVER+ Project Hosts Health Camp for Women Informal Waste Workers in Dhobighat

On 22 March 2025, the RIVER+ Project, in collaboration with Sanepa Health Centre, organized its first health camp dedicated to 45 women Informal Waste Workers (IWWs) employed at aggregator centres in Dhobighat. The camp offered a comprehensive suite of healthcare services, including general health checkups and specialized screenings by a general physician and a gynaecologist. Screenings addressed women-specific health concerns, and blood tests for blood sugar, HIV, and Hepatitis B were conducted. Participants received immediate treatment, free medication, health counselling, and referrals for further care when needed. Recognizing the hazardous conditions in which IWWs work, a follow-up vaccination drive was held on 4 April 2025, providing Tetanus and Hepatitis B vaccines. This initiative aimed to improve healthcare access for marginalized women, prevent communicable diseases, enhance awareness of hygiene and preventive health, and build lasting trust and engagement with the IWW community.

This impactful health intervention was carried out under the RIVER+ Project, funded by the Plastic Free Rivers and Seas for South Asia Project, implemented by the South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme, and supported by The World Bank with implementation support from UNOPS. The project is led by Biocomp Nepal, in partnership with People in Need Nepal and CLEAN UP NEPAL, as part of a shared mission to reduce plastic pollution and protect South Asia’s rivers.