Mumbai’s civic administration has invited bids for the operation and maintenance of aspirational public toilets for a ten-year period, even as questions persist over their construction and approval process. The initiative seeks to ensure that these modern facilities, built at prime locations across the city, remain accessible, hygienic, and sustainable.
The aspirational toilets, designed under the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, aim to provide citizens with well-equipped sanitation spaces in high-footfall areas. Locations include Lion Gate, K.B. Patil Road near the High Court, Vidhan Bhavan, Banganga in Walkeshwar, Mahim Reti Bunder, Fashion Street, and Khau Galli. Each site has been chosen for its civic importance and heavy pedestrian movement. The project, however, has faced hurdles. Of the 14 locations initially planned, seven were dropped. Some were cancelled due to restrictions on open spaces, others because of redevelopment conflicts such as Dharavi, and one was stalled over lack of clearance from the Archaeological Survey of India. In total, seven aspirational toilets were constructed at an estimated cost of ₹12 crore. Allegations of procedural lapses have led to a state government-directed inquiry, with the municipal commissioner tasked with reviewing compliance and accountability.
Despite these challenges, the civic body has issued a tender for round-the-clock management of the toilets. The proposed contract covers cleaning, waste segregation, utility management, and the upkeep of added facilities such as sanitary napkin dispensers and baby care rooms. The chosen operator will also be responsible for safety measures, guidance to users, and regular reporting of maintenance standards. Officials from the solid waste management department clarified that the project was sanctioned in 2023 under district planning funds, emphasising that current administrators are tasked only with ensuring smooth operations and maintenance. Senior officials further explained that while legal stays have affected two sites, permissions have been sought to continue operating the remaining facilities.
Urban planners and sanitation experts note that aspirational toilets can play a critical role in shaping equitable, gender-sensitive, and environmentally responsible urban sanitation. Features like baby care rooms and menstrual hygiene support reflect a shift towards inclusive public infrastructure. However, they caution that without transparent governance, robust monitoring, and sustainable practices, such initiatives risk being reduced to showcase projects rather than genuine public assets. The move comes at a time when Mumbai is grappling with rapid urbanisation and the growing demand for public amenities. With daily footfall in commercial and administrative districts already straining existing sanitation networks, reliable toilet facilities are seen as essential for both public health and civic dignity.
The civic body’s decision to prioritise a long-term contract for upkeep signals an acknowledgement that sustainable management, rather than one-time construction, defines the success of public infrastructure. As the tendering process unfolds, the larger question remains whether this model can set a precedent for equitable and eco-friendly sanitation across the city.
BMC Floats Tender For Decade-Long Management Of Mumbais Aspirational Public Toilets
