Why is BMC proposing a hike in public toilet charges? Here are charges that Mumbaikars can face

Mumbai may end free urinal access (AI-generated image for representational purposes only)The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proposed introducing a ₹1 charge for using public urinals in Mumbai, which are currently free. At present, urinals can be used free of charge, while washrooms cost ₹2 and bathing facilities are priced at ₹5. “While the development is carried out by the BMC, the public toilets are managed by private sansthas. They are left to manage the toilets on their own, which entails bearing the costs of cleaning, washing the premises, repairing any small or big damages, amongst other commercial charges. According to the civic body, the proposed increase would help operators cover their growing maintenance expenses. The revised rates are expected to apply to public pay-and-use toilet complexes. “Managing public health and providing access to sanitation facilities is a key responsibility of the municipal government as per the Constitution’s 74th Amendment. As per records, water and sanitation are amongst the most profit-making departments of the BMC. Yet, the operators of public toilets are currently suffering with losses as the BMC is charging them rates for electricity and water supply as per the commercial charges. In order to increase profit, the BMC has now proposed a charge hike. If citizens are unable to access sanitation facilities for free, then it is the municipal government’s failure,” he said.