Not enough space to build toilet: MMRDA

Mumbai: All monorail stations on phase 2 have single washrooms that were made for the staff. After monorail operations have started however, the same washroom (common for males and females) can be used by commuters. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) officials are struggling to increase the number of washrooms at monorail stations as all stations have been built on footpaths and there is no drainage provision for these toilets. Now, the authorities are planning to construct toilets at these stations but the drainage provision remains an issue.

Monorail phase 2 from Wadala depot to Sant Gadge Maharaj Chowk started on March 3. According to MMRDA nearly 25,000 commuters travel regularly on this route and lack of basic facilities like drinking water, sitting arrangements and toilets are issues that have become a matter of concern for the MMRDA officials.

There is only one washroom available at every station, and each one has a board at the entrance clearly mentioning that it is available “only for staff”.

Presently, commuters are allowed to use the same. The present washroom is common for males and females and special need individuals. One toilet is not enough for daily commuters.

MMRDA official on condition of anonymity said, “There is not enough space to build a toilet. Most of the stations are built on footpaths. Build-ing new toilets at stations will be challenging, as the drainage system will be an issue.”

The MMRDA officer also mentioned that they were working to overcome all issues and glitches on phase 2.

“Transport is part of development. We appreciate that monorail is part of development. But development must have a human face. Everyone has different requirements. One toilet is not at all sufficient to meet the needs of different individuals. Special people cannot wait for long in queues,” said Supriya Sonar – Jan activist of the Right to Pee campaign and from NGO CORO.