Indian Express 27.05.2010
Automatic flushes, sensor taps at NDMC’s new toilets
Hamari Jamatia Tags : NDMC new toilets, delhi Posted: Thu May 27 2010, 01:04 hrs
New delhi: Commonly associated with reeking smell, leaking water pipes and a lack of maintenance, public toilets are usually given a wide berth. All that is expected to change, with the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) putting finishing touches on Monday to its first ‘world-class toilet complex’ opposite the Hyatt Regency at Bhikaji Cama Place that, according to officials, “can compete with toilets in any five-star hotel”. Apart from ultra-modern facilities, the complex is also equipped with toilet seats for the physically challenged, which can also be used for children. The toilets also have automatic flushing and sensor taps.This is the first time sensor technology has been used in a public washroom. Similar technology will also be used in toilets that are being built in Moti Bagh, Scindia Marg and opposite the Safdarjung Hospital, areas that see a lot of visitors.
“There were demands for good public toilets for a long time. We have already built 94 toilets in the south of Rajpath and 42 toilets in the north of Rajpath. They are also equally clean — the latest technology has, however, been used in the new four ones,” says P K Sharma, Medical Officer of Health, NDMC. For people waiting in queue to use the toilet, there is also an aquarium to improve aesthetics.
When the proposal for ‘world-class toilets’ was made, the civic body wanted to integrate added features to each of the complexes. So, while the toilet opposite Hyatt has an aquarium, the toilet at Vinay Marg has drinking water facilities, with an installed RO filter.
The toilets in the NDMC areas remain open from 6 am to 10 pm. Every toilet is being manned by one person. “Many of our toilets are built near the bus stands. We noticed that after travelling long distances, people need to use a toilet. Men usually head for the nearest wall to relieve themselves while women don’t even have that option. We hope that with the new toilets, the habits will change,” added Sharma.
