Himachal Pradesh High Court Takes Firm Stand on Sanitation Issues...pulls up Sulabh International...
Shimla—In a significant move, the Himachal Pradesh High Court’s Division Bench, comprising Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Sushil Kukreja, issued new directives on June 19th to improve public sanitation.
This is part of an ongoing case (CWPIL No. 06/2017) focusing on the upkeep of public toilets and establishing amenities along the Parwanoo to Shimla highway. The court's decision emphasizes the importance of sanitation rights.
Expanding Accountability
The case has drawn attention from various sectors, and now the court has added the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to the list of respondents, making it No. 24. This shows the court’s intent to involve all necessary parties in resolving sanitation issues.
Addressing Gender Discrimination in Public Toilets
A serious issue revealed by the court is the discriminatory practice by Sulabh International Social Service Organization.
Despite their promise to provide free urinals for both men and women, it was found that women were being charged Rs. 5 for toilet use.
The court has demanded immediate compliance from the Municipal Corporation Shimla (respondent No. 18) and Sulabh International (respondent No. 21), warning them of contempt charges if they fail to do so.
The court’s directive will be widely shared in the media to ensure public awareness and adherence.
Modernizing and Mapping Toilets
The Department of Science and Technology has made significant progress by mapping and geo-tagging all 131 public toilets within Shimla’s Municipal Corporation.
This effort aims to make public access to sanitation facilities more efficient.
Acknowledging Contributions and Future Plans
The court praised the work of Mr. Deven Khanna, the Amicus Curiae, and the NGO “DOERS” for their detailed reports and photographs of the public toilets.
Their contributions have been crucial in informing the court’s recommendations. Each respondent has been ordered to pay Mr. Khanna for his out-of-pocket expenses as a gesture of appreciation.
Beautification and New Projects
The Horticulture Wing of HPPWD has been recognized for transforming a former dumping site along the highway into a beautified area.
Now respondent No. 25, the Horticulture Wing is planning new wayside amenities and beautification projects, with details to be provided in an upcoming affidavit.
Reopening the Tender Process
To ensure fair competition, Chief Engineer Suresh Kapoor announced that the tender process for wayside amenities will be reopened.
The initial process attracted only one bidder, so fresh bids will be invited within two days, following Central Vigilance Commission guidelines.
The next hearing is set for July 3, 2024, where the court will review the progress and compliance with these directives.
This order highlights the High Court’s determination to improve sanitation and public amenities, setting a strong example for infrastructure and public health efforts throughout the state.
