Shimla, May 31
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued a crucial order regarding the poor condition of public toilets in Shimla city. The court has mandated that the Department of Science and Technology, along with other relevant departments, make toilet mapping and related data publicly accessible. Additionally, the Municipal Corporation and other departments have been directed to file a status report by the next hearing, scheduled for June 18. The case is being heard by a division bench comprising Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Sushil Kukreja.
This order is a significant step towards addressing the sanitary challenges in Shimla. The amicus curiae, an advocate appointed by the court, highlighted the severe difficulties faced by children, women, and the elderly due to the inadequate toilet facilities. Tourists also express dissatisfaction with the deplorable state of the public toilets. The advocate reported that the poor hygiene and scarcity of toilets compel women to refrain from urinating, leading to severe health issues such as kidney stones and uterine infections.
The court’s intervention dates back to 2017 when it took cognizance of the matter. The current order aims to advance the goal of transforming Shimla into a model city. Investigations have been conducted on 37 out of the 131 toilets managed by the Municipal Corporation of Shimla. The findings reveal numerous issues: broken toilet seats, lack of lighting, and water shortages in many facilities.
The court has emphasized the need for both public and private toilets in Shimla to be repaired and maintained properly. The poor state of the toilets not only affects residents but also tarnishes the experience of tourists visiting the city. The advocate underscored that women’s health is particularly at risk due to the unsanitary conditions, which discourage them from using the available facilities.
By making the toilet data public and requiring regular status reports, the court aims to address and resolve the long-standing sanitary issues, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Empower Independent Journalism – Join Us Today!
Dear Reader,
We’re committed to unbiased, in-depth journalism that uncovers truth and gives voice to the unheard. To sustain our mission, we need your help. Your contribution, no matter the size, fuels our research, reporting, and impact.
Stand with us in preserving independent journalism’s integrity and transparency. Support free press, diverse perspectives, and informed democracy.
Click [here] to join and be part of this vital endeavour.
Thank you for valuing independent journalism.
Warmly,
Vishal Sarin, Editor
