Mixed response to BBMP's SHE toilets in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has unveiled plans to construct around 100 SHE toilets throughout Bengaluru, a move welcomed by many citizens, especially women and street vendors.

These dedicated facilities aim to address the challenges faced by women using current public toilets. BBMP Chief Engineer Praveen Lingaiah confirmed the initiative, stating that work orders have been issued for 75 SHE toilets, with an additional 25 to be tendered soon.

Construction is set to begin shortly, with completion targeted within nine months. While the initiative has garnered support, women's activists have voiced concerns about the state of existing infrastructure.

Archana KR, Founder of Stand4SHE, expressed disappointment after conducting an audit, citing many toilets as unfit for use. She highlighted instances of male cleaning staff misusing facilities intended for women, posing security risks.

Archana also noted the neglect faced by pink toilets constructed for women shortly after their inauguration. Anshika Katara, a sanitary activist from the Nguvu collective, echoed these concerns, emphasising the lack of essential amenities like sanitary pads and adequate water supply in some women's toilets.

Anshika stressed the importance of renovating existing facilities and urged BBMP to ensure all women's toilets are well-equipped. The discussion underscores the necessity for comprehensive improvements in Bengaluru's public sanitation infrastructure.

While the introduction of SHE toilets is viewed positively for enhancing gender-sensitive facilities, activists advocate for concurrent efforts to upgrade existing facilities to better serve all women in the city.