Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)
Mangaluru, Feb 1: The writing on the outside of an e-toilet located at Kadri Park calls upon people to get involved with Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in a big way and turn Mangaluru into a clean city. But the condition of the toilet gives a meaning that is entirely opposed to what the writing outside claims.
Out of the e-toilets installed two years back, none are in working condition now. In some of these toilets, if someone gets into accidentally, they cannot come out unless they break open the doors. Each of these toilets has cost about seven lac rupees. Some of them were provided by private companies under their corporate social responsibility grant while the others were built by the city corporation out of 14th finance commission grants. The locals cite examples of these toilets standing at various corners of the city to show how taxpayers money can be drained away without serving any purpose.
The e-toilets were dedicated to the world during the previous administration. For a few months, they were maintained well. Their doors opened upon insertion of any of the coins, after use, water flushed the toilet bowls, there was a tap to wash hands, and the red light glowed when someone occupied the toilets. But now, due to lack of maintenance, and on account of the handiwork of thieves and miscreants, these are not in working condition.
The sensors of the two e-toilets at Lalbagh bus stand have not been functional and green or red light indicators do not glow. The doors can be opened without coin, and the tank has no water. Out of the two toilets at Kadri Park, the coins tray of one of them, and the electricity meter of the junction box in the other has disappeared. The door is locked and cannot be opened. Lights are off. It is very hard to go to the other one in Valencia, locals say that no one has ever used it, as it is near the public toilet. The e-toilet at Yekkur does not open even when coins are inserted. Another toilet nearby next to the ground also has problems of its own.
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