More than a year after the Ombudsman for local self government institutions issued an order to the Kozhikode Corporation to ensure the proper functioning of the 15 e-toilets in the city, half of them remain unusable.
As per a survey conducted by Sthree Chethana, the organisation that has been fighting for the cause of e-toilets since 2010, the newly established eight e-toilets are mostly in working condition, except for a few small faults. But the seven older ones are still unusable, mostly due to non availability of water.
A report submitted by Sthree Chethana to the Ombudsman during the hearing held on Friday pointed out that the signal system was faulty in the toilets at Mananchira Square and Medical College. Instead of the red light that indicates that the toilet is occupied, the green light continues to shine, causing much confusion among the users.
Non-availability of water created problems at the toilets near Head Post Office, and at Muthalakkulam, Pavangad, Oyitty Road and Lorry Stand. The well that provided water to the toilet at Lorry Stand was cleaned after a report a few months ago that a dead animal was found in it. However, the well was covered using metal scrap and other hazardous waste material.
Location
Meanwhile, the toilets including the ones at Oyitty Road, Lorry Stand and Karapparamba were situated amidst a parking area while some others have become waste dumping yards, as a result of which women hesitate to use them. The proposed access path to the toilet in IMCH complex has not yet been built.
The organisation stated that the awareness and cleanliness campaign planned in connection with e-toilets could not be taken out due to the condition of the toilets.
It pointed out that the neglect of e-toilets symbolised the Corporation’s disregard towards women. Sthree Chethana suggested that the Ombudsman seek an explanation from the Corporation Secretary for not implementing the Ombudsman’s order even after a year.
The Ombudsman will hold another hearing on the issue on June 24.
