Mapusa/Margao/Panaji: Availability of clean washrooms is a basic need for users of public bus stands. However, the toilets at major bus stands, especially at Panaji and Mapusa, lack hygiene and maintenance. Commuters said the lack of regular cleaning forces them to not use the facilities.In the women’s washroom at the Panaji bus stand, sanitary napkins were lying on the floor without being properly disposed of, making it even more uncomfortable for users.The problem extends beyond cleanliness at Mapusa bus stand, with users stating they are charged different rates from Rs 5 to Rs 10 to use the toilet, based on whether the user is a man or a woman.Rashmi Gawade, who works at a gallery and travels by bus daily, said that she avoids using KTC toilets at Panaji as they are not maintained properly.“Sanitary pad vending machines are often empty, and electric disposal systems are not functioning. The overall condition reflects a clear lack of supervision and maintenance,” she said.The issue is especially concerning for students and working people who depend on bus travel daily. Bhakti Gaude, who travels to college by bus, said that after using the KTC toilet once and fining it in a very bad condition, she stopped using public restrooms.Only the toilets at the new KTC bus stand at Ponda, being newly constructed, are relatively clean. The Margao KTC bus stand too is in a good condition. However, even there, the sanitary pad vending machine was empty.Goacan coordinator Roland Martins said that the organisation has taken up this matter with KTC authorities, as they are the ones responsible for the services provided at bus stands. “Several measures must be implemented to address the issue. There must be a standard operating procedure for maintaining hygiene in these washrooms. The rates for using the washrooms must be displayed and should be the same for men and women, without any discrimination. Consumers should be able to register grievances with KTC through a WhatsApp helpline or email, both of which must be prominently displayed at the washrooms,” said Martins.He added that a KTC complaint book must be available at a designated place at the bus stand for users to record complaints and an officer from the KTC head office should visit these bus stands on a bimonthly basis to inspect the condition of washrooms and other facilities.
