Indore Smart City Development Limited (ISCDL) plans to resume the work of developing She Kunjs or toilets for women across the city. As per the officials, at least 20 more will come up in the next few months.
This development project that was about to undergo last year was delayed due to pandemic induced restrictions and other administrative challenges. As per the original plan, total of 25 pink toilets were supposed to come up. However, so far only 9 She Kunjs have been constructed under the project.
Emphasis on women’s health
She Kunjs, are equipped with modern western toilets, sanitary pad vending machines, sanitary pad incinerator, etc. Meeting Indore’s cleanliness standards, the staff keeps the facilities spick and span at all times. Each of these toilets is built on an area of at least 400 sq ft.
Officials aim to establish more such facilities at locations that are easily accessible by women. The work of construction of toilets will be done under PPP model. Under the agreement, contractors will tasked to maintain the facilities for at least 15 years.
ISCDL attracts pvt contractors to run such facilities
In an attempt to attract investers, the civic body also allowed the contractors to benefit from the profits made via the advertising space available over each She Kunj. Another source of income will be a small shop or stall adjacent to each toilet.
These stalls will carry necessary items that the public may require. However, the contractors will have to pay ISCDL ₹348 per sq ft on a monthly basis. Additionally, officials aim to establish 375 more She Kunjs across Indore in over next 15 years.
