Bengaluru
A recent survey conducted by Archana K.R., founder of the Stand For Shi organization, has shed light on the deplorable conditions of public toilets in Bangalore. The survey, titled ‘The Big Bangalore Mahanagar Toilet Survey,’ encompassed 48 public toilets across various locations in the capital, including Rajajinagar, Jayanagar, Basavanagudi, Mahalakshme Layout, Basaveshwar Nagar, Chikkapet, and HSR Layout. Key findings from the survey indicate that 75% of the public toilets lack proper doors and locks, posing a significant threat to women’s safety. Additionally, 66% of the toilets do not have adequate lighting, making it unsafe for women to use them during nighttime. The lack of essential facilities such as dustbins for napkin disposal, proper water systems, and accessibility for disabled individuals further compounds the challenges faced by the public. The survey exposed disparities in fee structures, with women being charged Rs 5 compared to Rs 2 for men, a practice that needs urgent attention. The state of hygiene is also a concern, with 50% of the toilets reportedly facing sewage-related issues every three months, causing inconvenience to the public. Another distressing aspect revealed by the survey is the inhumane treatment of cleaning staff, many of whom are migrants lacking proper protective equipment and facing language barriers. The report emphasizes the need for fixed salaries and regular payments to address the challenges faced by these workers. The survey’s evidence extends to broken locks, maintenance staff residing near women’s toilets, and an overall lack of attention to cleanliness and hygiene. The findings underscore the urgent need for corrective measures to ensure the safety, dignity, and accessibility of public toilets, especially for women and vulnerable populations. Advocacy for improved infrastructure, staff welfare, and standardized fees is essential to address the alarming state of public sanitation in Bangalore.
