I’ve always wanted to do something meaningful in my community. After finishing my B. Com Degree, I found an opportunity to look after the Karunguzhi Faecal Sludge Septage Management Treatment Plant (FSTP). Initially, I was hesitant to take over because I did not know much about FSTP and I was the first female in charge of overseeing this project. I felt like I had a big shoe to fill. Despite my reservations I decided to take on the challenge and break the gender stereotype.
When I joined the plant as an operator, I realized that there was much more to the job than just paperwork. I had to manage truck drivers, maintain records, and handle variety of other responsibilities. At first, I found it challenging, especially dealing with staff and truck drivers who were reluctant to follow the rules. Being new in charge, they tested my leadership skills, and discussions with them were difficult, making it a bit of a tough start. but, over time, I slowly and steadily developed my leadership and managerial skills to handle such situations. I started organizing regular meetings with my team, where we discussed the challenges and worked together to find solutions. This helped to build better relationships within the team, making my job easier.
As I spent more time at the treatment plant, I learned that fecal sludge was a valuable resource that could be transformed into useful products like manure. This realization fueled my passion for the job and responsibilities, and I was determined to take care of the plant and make sure it ran smoothly.
Now I am in charge of the FSTP plant, and I manage everything from the incoming truck registers to collecting money and overseeing the staff. Sometimes I really feel proud when people say “I am making a difference in my community, breaking the gender stereotypes and showing that women can be leaders in male-dominated fields”
Watch T. Saranya’s Journey in this video.
The Indian Institute of Human Settlements (IIHS) leads TNUSSP, working with community toilets in the city to improve sanitation. IIHS is part of the National Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (NFSSM) Alliance, which is a collaborative body driving the discourse FSSM in India.
