Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal
Bantwal, Mar 14: The Pink Toilet, constructed exclusively for women near the taluk administrative complex at B C Road by the Bantwal municipality at a cost of approximately Rs 25 lac, is facing operational challenges and remains largely unused. Allegations have surfaced that the facility is inconsistently opened, causing inconvenience to women.
Funded under the Nagarothana scheme, this Pink Toilet was the first of its kind in Dakshina Kannada district. Despite several delays and complications during its construction, the facility was eventually entrusted to Bengaluru-based Shuchi Sanstha for maintenance and was subsequently opened for public use.
Reports suggest that the Pink Toilet is not open on a daily basis, and its operation depends on the discretion of the managing staff. Since the facility is located in a central area of B C Road, women are hesitant to rely on it due to its inconsistent availability. The managing organization is reportedly struggling to keep the facility operational, with frequent water shortages further exacerbating the problem.
The Pink Toilet is not just a sanitation facility; it includes essential amenities such as a nursing room for mothers, a women's rest area, and sanitary napkin dispensers. Despite these conveniences, the number of women using the facility remains disappointingly low.
Due to the low number of female users, the Bantwal municipality had initially considered allowing men to use a section of the facility. However, since the contractor responsible for its construction has a five-year maintenance agreement, any modifications will only be considered after this period. The municipality plans to allocate additional funds in the future to redesign the facility for male use if necessary.
Meanwhile, the construction of a public toilet beneath the B C Road flyover has been completed and is expected to be opened for public use within the next 10-15 days. Additionally, public toilets in Kotramanagundi and Baddakatta are nearing completion, while the Panemangalore toilet is set for inauguration soon, officials confirmed.
Speaking on the issue, Bantwal Municipal Council president BVasu Poojary Loretto stated, "The Pink Toilet is operational, and we had previously considered allowing male access. However, this proposal has now been shelved. Meanwhile, the public toilet constructed beneath the B C Road flyover will be inaugurated soon to address the sanitation needs of the public."
The municipality hopes that these initiatives will improve public sanitation and accessibility in Bantwal, addressing the concerns raised by residents.