As Indians, we often find ourselves asking this question: Why do so many public places in our country smell like urine? It’s an issue we’ve all experienced, whether while walking past walls, visiting railway stations, or even at bus stops. This unpleasant reality is not just an embarrassment; it’s a serious indicator of systemic problems that need urgent attention. Let’s try to understand the reasons behind this persistent issue.
1. The Lack of Public Toilets
One of the primary reasons for this problem is the sheer lack of accessible and clean public toilets. While cities have made some progress in building public sanitation facilities, they are still far too few to cater to the growing population. Many people, especially in urban areas, have no choice but to relieve themselves in open spaces.
Consider this: If someone is stuck in traffic for hours or traveling long distances, where are they supposed to go? The absence of conveniently located toilets forces people to urinate on walls or in secluded corners.
2. Poor Maintenance of Existing Facilities
Even when public toilets exist, they are often in a horrible state of disrepair. Broken taps, clogged drains, lack of running water, and poor hygiene make these facilities unusable for many. Would we choose to use a stinking, unhygienic toilet when we could instead find an open spot? The answer is obvious.
The problem is further compounded by a lack of regular cleaning and oversight. Maintenance contracts are either poorly implemented or ignored altogether. Without a sense of accountability, these facilities quickly deteriorate into unusable spaces.
3. Cultural Habits and Mindsets
Another factor is the normalization of public urination in certain segments of society. Many people view urinating in public spaces as acceptable or even inevitable, especially in areas where they’ve seen others doing the same. This creates a vicious cycle where one person’s act encourages others.
In some rural areas, open defecation and urination have been a norm for decades due to lack of infrastructure. When they move to cities, they often continue with this habit, adding to the problem in urban areas.
4. Social Stigma
While the government has tried to promote hygiene and sanitation through campaigns like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, we still face a lack of awareness about the consequences of public urination. Many people do not realize the health risks it poses, such as the spread of diseases and contamination of water sources.
Moreover, there is a certain stigma attached to asking for help or using pay-and-use facilities, particularly for men. Women, on the other hand, suffer more because of the lack of gender-sensitive sanitation infrastructure.
5. Alcohol and Substance Abuse
Let’s be honest: A lot of public urination happens late at night, often fueled by alcohol or substance abuse. Many people frequent roadside liquor shops or bars and then relieve themselves nearby. Since these areas are often poorly lit and lack policing, this behaviour goes unchecked.
6. Apathy Towards Public Spaces
As a society, we tend to view public spaces as “not our responsibility.” Many of us take great care of our homes but show little concern for keeping public areas clean. This apathy leads to widespread misuse of shared resources and spaces. If we don’t feel ownership of these spaces, why would we care about their cleanliness?
What Can Be Done?
The situation is dire, but it is not beyond repair. Here’s how to address this issue:
1. Build More Public Toilets
Governments and private organizations need to work together to create accessible, clean, and well-maintained public restrooms. Toilets should be placed at regular intervals in busy areas like markets, highways, and railway stations.
2. Improve Maintenance
Merely building toilets is not enough. Regular cleaning and upkeep should be mandatory, with strict accountability mechanisms in place.
3. Promote Awareness
Campaigns need to focus not just on cleanliness but on changing people’s mindsets. Highlighting the health risks and environmental damage caused by public urination can help foster a sense of responsibility.
4. Introduce Fines and Penalties
Countries like Singapore have effectively curbed public urination through heavy fines and penalties. We need stricter enforcement of laws to discourage such behavior.
5. Behavioural Change- Education is key
Schools, community groups, and media campaigns can teach the importance of proper sanitation and respect for public spaces from a young age.
6. Involve Technology
Innovative solutions like automated public toilets, odor-control technologies, and apps that guide users to the nearest restroom can make a big difference.
Conclusion
The unpleasant smell of urine in public places across India reflects deeper systemic issues such as inadequate infrastructure, poor maintenance, and societal habits. While the challenge is big, it is not insurmountable. The solution lies in collective action- government initiatives, private efforts, and active citizen participation can reclaim the dignity of India’s public spaces.
