Manoj Kumar Jain, a dedicated Nominated Member of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), has raised an urgent alarm about the deteriorating state of public urinals throughout Delhi. In a heartfelt appeal to MCD Commissioner Shri Ashwani Kumar, he has highlighted the pressing need for immediate maintenance of these facilities and the critical requirement for more sanitation options, especially for women.
Key Issues Identified:
– Severe Unhygienic Conditions: Many of Delhi’s public urinals are plagued by blockages, causing urine overflow and creating unhygienic conditions. Without regular cleaning, these facilities are forcing people to resort to unsanitary alternatives.
– Lack of Basic Amenities: Numerous public toilets lack essential facilities like handwashing stations and functional flushing systems. The infrastructure is often in disrepair, with broken fittings being a common sight.
– Poor Lighting and Ventilation: The absence of adequate lighting and ventilation in these facilities is a significant concern, especially at night, making the use of these toilets both challenging and unsafe.
– Insufficient Disinfection: Without regular disinfection, these facilities emit foul odors, making the environment unpleasant and potentially harmful to health.
– Health Risks: The neglected state of these toilets has turned them into breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other insects, contributing to the spread of diseases such as Dengue and Malaria, particularly in nearby areas.
The Critical Shortage of Women’s Sanitation Facilities:
Manoj Kumar Jain’s letter also draws attention to the severe lack of public toilets for women in Delhi. The current facilities are far from adequate, posing serious concerns for women’s safety and hygiene in public spaces.
Proposed Solutions:
To address these urgent issues, Manoj Kumar Jain has recommended that local Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and Traders Associations be empowered to take responsibility for maintaining these facilities. By providing these groups with the necessary funds and permitting them to raise additional resources through advertisements and hoardings, the upkeep of public toilets can be greatly improved.
Moreover, increasing the number of well-maintained and safe toilets for women throughout Delhi is essential to achieving the goals of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and upholding the dignity of all citizens.
