India’s first public toilet for third gender inaugurated in Bengaluru

In a groundbreaking initiative, India’s first dedicated public toilet for the third gender was inaugurated in front of Upparpete Police Station, Bengaluru. Developed in collaboration with Rotary International District 3192 and Sulabh International, this facility marks a significant step towards inclusive public infrastructure.

 Speaking at the inauguration, RI Director K.P. Nagesh emphasized Rotary’s century-long commitment to social service. “For the first time in the country, a dedicated toilet has been built for the third gender.

This initiative aims to create gender-neutral and accessible sanitation facilities across all districts under the CSR grant, in partnership with Sulabh International,” he stated. Highlighting the importance of the project, RI V. Srinivasa Murthy, Charter Governor of Rotary International District 3192, said, “This is a major step towards making our city more inclusive and accessible.

We hope it sets a model for public infrastructure projects across the country.” The facility is designed to provide a safe, dignified, and accessible space for the third gender, all gender communities, and the differently-abled. It features a gender-neutral design, wheelchair accessibility, barrier-free convenience, high standards of cleanliness and maintenance, and an emergency assistance system to enhance user safety.

The initiative has been widely appreciated by activists and members of the third-gender community, who have long struggled with the lack of accessible public sanitation facilities.

Many expressed hope that this project would encourage similar developments across the country, promoting dignity and inclusion.