Lack of public toilet is one of the major problems in the Kathmandu metropolis that is in the grip of unplanned urbanization and massive population growth. It is a matter of happiness that the Kathmandu metropolitan City has geared up to construct new public toilets with special facilities considering the shortage of public toilets in Kathmandu. This initiative will not only maintain urban sanitation but also benefit the group of people who are deprived from using public toilets.

But, unfortunately many existing public toilets are in deplorable condition without even basic standard of cleanliness and facilities. Basic facilities like water and hand-washing provision are not there in many public toilets. People fear that they catch diseases from the toilet that is meant for sanitation. People generally do not prefer to use public toilets that are in pitiable condition despite charging high service charge from the users. It is a common sight of people answering the nature’s call in the open.

Therefore, it is necessary that the Kathmandu Metropolitan City pay serious heed towards maintaining basic facilities and proper cleanliness in existing public toilets along with the construction of new toilets. This will change the people’s perception about the Kathmandu Metropolitan City.

By: Tri Ratna Manandhar, Chhauni, Kathmandu

Source: Annapurna Post, August 8, 2011