RMC has found a noble way to deal with shortage of public urinals as well as scarcity of water for managing those at one go. The urban local body is going to build more than 200 waterless urinals in a bid to better the sanitation scenario in the city.
The urinals have been designed to minimise the maintenance part involved and the idea has been welcomed by host of ward councillors. “A total of 275 waterless urinals, five for each of the 55 wards, will be built across the city. As these do not require a drop of water, it is easier to clean them compared to conventional public toilets,” stated Deputy Mayor Sanjeev Vijaywargia as he tabled the idea before RMC Standing Committee for deliberation.
One of these lavatories can be erected on a piece of land measuring 6feet in breath and 4 feet in length, costing Rs 60,000 each. The waterless urinal built in Kokar on pilot basis has been a success and the concept is being adopted by some private parties too, added the Deputy Mayor.
“These new urinals will have four sections, two for men and two for women. The expenses involved can be covered from the funds sanctioned under Swachh Bharat Mission. Finer details will be clarified in the next RMC Board meeting scheduled for next Monday,” said Mayor Asha lakra.
Additionally, the Committee also consented to use open public spaces for water harvesting, following a concept being used in Gujarat. “Water harvesting arrangements have been made compulsory for households and other structures, but the benefit of this move falls short of being the solution to depleting groundwater levels. Considering this, similar arrangements can be made in fields and open common spaces of the city for greater impact,” stated Vijaywargia.