Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) is facing hurdles in the construction of public toilets in the city as local leaders and residents continue to oppose several proposed sites.
According to BMC, despite receiving central funding under AMRUT 2.0 scheme, it has managed to finalise locations for only 50 of the planned 150 public urinal toilets across the city.
The corporation has already floated tenders for 106 toilets, each estimated to cost Rs 4 lakh. These facilities are to be built across all 85 wards, particularly in areas with high public demand. Each unit is designed to occupy approximately 160sq ft (8x20ft).However, the project has run into resistance at multiple locations, with nearly 30 proposed toilets reportedly cancelled due to objections.
Residents have raised concerns over poor maintenance, fearing that the lack of proper upkeep could lead to unhygienic conditions in their neighbourhoods.
Maintenance concerns trigger opposition
Unlike existing community and public toilets managed by caretaker agencies, the maintenance mechanism for these new units remains unclear. This uncertainty has intensified public opposition, with locals apprehensive about sanitation and cleanliness.
Disputes reach courts
In several cases, disputes over land ownership and site selection have reached courts. At least four such cases have been reported. To avoid further conflicts, BMC officials have adopted a cautious approach, initiating groundwork only after ensuring minimal resistance at selected sites.
Area-wise distribution of planned toilets
According to officials, tenders have been issued for 29 units in north and central constituencies, 10 in south-west, 19 in Govindpura, 25 in Narela and 23 in Huzur. Tenders for an additional 44 units are yet to be floated.
