Hyderabad: Given that there are a scarce number of ‘clean’ public toilets for women in the city, many of them are in discomfort. It is a struggle to find usable toilets and many women, fearing infections, hesitate to use public washrooms due to factors like poor maintenance and hygiene issues.
According to one S. Vikram Rao, “There are no public toilets within a two km radius. And those that exist are in deplorable conditions. Most are poorly maintained and water facilities are nearly zero.”
Sharing her experiences, Y. Gayathri said, “I prefer to use public toilets that are clean and well-maintained. However, if I can’t find one, it becomes an uncomfortable and stressful situation, especially in unfamiliar places. During emergencies, I try to locate facilities in restaurants or shopping centres.”
“I found that almost every public toilet was either locked or in an unhygienic condition. Once I walked into a restroom and walked out immediately because it was too dirty to even step inside. As a precautionary measure, I invariably carry tissues and sanitizers,” said M. Yashaswini.
S. Manasa, another woman deploring the abysmal situation, said “If a public toilet is found unclean, I try to find another facility or report the issue to the maintenance staff. When no other option is available, I am forced to compromise on hygiene.”
K. Sunaina says that she avoids using public toilets altogether.
“It is also the responsibility of the public to maintain hygiene and not just that of the cleaning staff. Basic toilet etiquette, like flushing after use, is missing. Indian style toilets are better than the western ones when it comes to public toilets,” she said.
“As a woman, I have to be extra cautious. I carry disinfectant spray and most of the time I avoid using public toilets for fear of potential infections,” said N. Sravya.
“Despite a 2018 circular by the GHMC urging people to use toilets at petrol pumps, food establishments, and malls, many outlets are found wanting. Moreover, women are hesitant to ask for permission to use such facilities,” pointed out K. Himavathi.
Meanwhile, build-operate-transfer (BOT) toilets, maintained by Sulabh and Safai Karamchari, are in relatively better condition.
The GHMC sanitation head told Deccan Chronicle “Pre-fabricated toilets are in a damaged state. We will soon release a circular to assess the situation and hand over maintenance to NGOs and sanitation workers on a trial basis.”
“As per GHMC contracts, the contractors have to ensure that public toilets are cleaned twice every day. Petrol pumps are required to provide toilet facilities. Many toilets are defunct as the infrastructure facilities have been stolen. We are planning to call for tenders to repair them,” an official from the civic body said.
