Mumbai Aarey Slum Toilets Inoperative Two Years After Inauguration
In Mumbai, two large public lavatories, each with 70 toilets, in Aarey Milk Colony’s slum pockets remain non-operational and locked, nearly two years after their inauguration. Despite urgent demands from residents facing safety concerns from leopards while relieving themselves in the open, these crucial facilities lack basic water and electricity connections. This situation has sparked questions from a local political leader, who has formally sought answers from the assistant municipal commissioner regarding the delay, highlighting a significant lapse in providing essential urban infrastructure to vulnerable communities.
A local political leader has heavily criticized the prolonged closure, stating that the facilities at Units 7 and 31 were specifically constructed to provide necessary relief to Aarey residents. The Unit 7 facility was inaugurated by a local political figure in June 2023, while the Unit 31 facility was opened in September 2023 by another. The leader contends that the non-operation clearly demonstrates that residents have been “fooled,” demanding a thorough investigation and strict disciplinary action against the contractors and concerned officials for depriving citizens of such basic amenities. Authorities have reportedly cited technical reasons, including installing water connections, as causes for the delay.
A former corporator, denying responsibility, stated that she has been constantly following up with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), alleging that the ward office is failing to supply water to the toilets. She further claimed that “anti-social elements” at Unit 7 are actively preventing the facility from opening, as they desire to secure the maintenance contract, and she has reported this to the police. Regarding Unit 31, she instructed the BMC ward office to supply water, but no action has been taken. A resident from Unit 7 expressed deep frustration, confirming the two-year delay and the stated water supply issue, questioning the purpose of a premature inauguration.
The prolonged closure of these essential public toilets underscores critical gaps in civic project execution and accountability. Ensuring access to proper sanitation is paramount for public health and safety, especially in vulnerable areas. Prompt action is needed to deliver promised infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to equitable urban development and the well-being of all citizens.
