Bengaluru's Public Toilets: A Grim Reality Check

A recent audit of Bengaluru's public sanitation infrastructure has revealed a critical deficit, with the city of 1.4 crore people possessing only about 900 public toilets. This equates to one facility for every 25,000 to 30,000 citizens, falling far short of the population's needs. The audit, conducted in April and May 2026, found significant issues across the city.

Of the 142 audited toilets, 37 were non-functional. Only six were rated 'Very Clean,' and 58% had persistent foul odors. Safety concerns were raised as only 56% were adequately lit. Furthermore, nearly 94% of these facilities lacked ramps, rendering them inaccessible to persons with disabilities.

Basic amenities are also scarce, with water available in only around 40% of functional toilets, and no soap dispensers or dustbins were found in any. Recommendations include a 30-day repair campaign, establishing a dedicated Public Toilet Management Cell, and shifting to long-term 'Operate & Maintain' contracts with strict performance monitoring.

Authorities are urged to ensure uninterrupted water supply, lighting, soap, and regular maintenance. Prioritizing women-friendly and gender-inclusive facilities, along with strengthening community participation in monitoring, are also key recommendations. The construction of over 1,000 modern, user-friendly toilets is proposed, especially in high-footfall areas.