even if there were stains and excrement in Zhao Family Village, they were hidden away in the corners, unlike in some modern countries where people would openly relieve themselves in public. The most unacceptable part was that they actually used their hands to handle these matters. Just thinking about it made Yun Yi feel nauseous.
However, this situation could not be allowed to continue deteriorating. The issue of public sanitation needed to be addressed promptly. Although the presence of milk could help, even if the dirty environment led to outbreaks of diseases, they could be quickly cured. But who would want to live in a place filled with filth?
“Zhao An.”
“I’m here, Immortal Sir.”
“Then let’s issue a notice prohibiting anyone from relieving themselves anywhere in Zhao Family Village.”
Zhao An pondered for a moment before replying, “My lord, relying solely on a notice may not ensure everyone will comply.”
Yun Yi thought for a moment and countered, “What if we establish a simple punishment system? What do you think would work better?”
After careful consideration, Zhao An responded, “Immortal Sir, how about imposing fines in food?”
Speaking of food, Yun Yi contemplated for a while and found it indeed to be a good idea! In the current Zhao Family Village, currency was hardly circulated. No one was willing to exchange their food for worthless scraps; food was what truly held value. However, even for food...
There is a difference between staple foods and side dishes. Staple foods like corn and wheat provide energy for the body, making them inherently more valuable. In contrast, side dishes such as meat, vegetables, and fruits are generally cheaper. Of course, meat is an exception. Although classified as a side dish, meat is actually rarer than staple foods. Typically, one pound of meat can be exchanged for five pounds of staple food, while one pound of staple food can be traded for two pounds of other side dishes like carrots or greens.
After the implementation of labor-for-relief measures, young laborers participating in work can receive one and a half pounds of staple food and one pound of side dishes daily. Women and children under sixteen have lighter tasks and receive slightly less food—only one pound of staple food and one pound of side dishes, which is half a pound less than what young laborers receive.
This is the standard set by Yun Yi, which is already quite generous for most people. In fact, many can still have leftovers after eating their fill. However, those who have experienced famine do not waste food casually. They carefully store any remaining food for future needs.
So, what standard do you think should be set? Yun Yi asked.
Zhao An cautiously replied, "Ten pounds of side dishes? If converted to staple food, that would be at a two-to-one ratio?"
Yun Yi thought for a moment and nodded in agreement.
Ten pounds of provisions is not too much, and for those who have experienced hardship, such a punishment can indeed resonate with them. However, our goal is not to deprive the villagers of food through punishment; rather, it is to help them develop good hygiene habits.
Yun Yi then turned to Zhao Yun and said, "Once the announcement is made, you will be responsible for its execution and supervision to ensure that the discipline is upheld."
Zhao Yun immediately agreed. Although punitive measures can temporarily address the issue, the fundamental solution lies in resolving the shortage of toilets.
It is important to note that before the arrival of the refugees, the population of Zhao Family Village was less than a thousand. Under the old way of life, having one toilet per household was sufficient. However, with the population surging to around two thousand, people's physiological needs cannot wait for others to finish; otherwise, they might have to relieve themselves anywhere.
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