Passengers Win Small Battle as BMRCL Declares Metro Station Toilets Will Be Free for All
Bengaluru: After facing intense backlash from commuters and the general public, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has officially revoked its decision to charge fees for using public toilets at metro stations across the city.
The corporation confirmed that toilets at all Namma Metro stations will now be free of cost, marking a major relief for thousands of daily passengers. This decision comes after widespread criticism over BMRCL’s tie-up with Sulabh International, a non-profit organisation that was collecting usage fees at 12 metro stations in Bengaluru.
“No fee will be collected for using the toilets at metro stations. These toilets will now be open for public use free of cost,” said a BMRCL official, confirming the move.
Public Pressure Forces Reversal
The policy reversal comes in the wake of strong public opposition. Commuters had expressed outrage at being charged for basic sanitation facilities, particularly when metro fares were already hiked by 71% earlier.
In response, BMRCL terminated its agreement with Sulabh International, which had deployed personnel at the 12 fee-collecting stations.
“BMRCL has announced that it will not collect toilet usage fees, hence we have withdrawn our workers from 12 metro stations,” said M. Vishwanath, Controller, Sulabh International, Karnataka.
Advocate’s Protest Gains Ground
One of the leading voices opposing the fee was Advocate T. Narasimha Murthy, who had taken up the issue both publicly and legally.
“Toilets and drinking water are basic necessities, not premium services. Our metro has already increased ticket prices by 71%, and charging for toilet use would have been an additional burden. I welcome BMRCL’s decision. Going forward, there should be a public debate before such policies are implemented,” he said.
BMRCL Faces Growing Public Scrutiny
This isn’t the first time BMRCL has faced backlash over policy decisions. With growing ridership and expanding metro lines, public expectations around affordability and accessibility are at an all-time high.
Civic activists and passenger welfare groups have now called for more inclusive decision-making processes, ensuring that the interests of the common commuter are not overlooked.
What's Next for BMRCL?
As Namma Metro expands deeper into the city and suburbs, passenger-centric policies will be key to building trust and ridership. Ensuring access to basic amenities like clean toilets and drinking water, without additional charges, will be crucial in that journey.
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