Naveed Bhat
Kulgam: Lack of public toilets continue to be a reason for open defecation in this south Kashmir district and the commuters are forced to head out into the open to answer the nature’s call.
A number of people said that they are no public toilets in Kulgam’s main market , the place frequented by thousands of people daily.
“There are no public toilets from Chawalgam to Laroo bus stand and people have no option but resort to open defecation,” says Nazir Ahmad, a resident of Kulgam.
There are several places which literally stink and people pass through by holding their nose.
“The authorities should look into the matter as it is of utmost importance as huge inconvenience is caused to the public,” says Gulzar Ahmad, another local resident.
There are no She toilets either. “The non-availability of public toilets is a huge inconvenience for every women,” says Shugufta Akhar, a resident of Kulgam.
When contacted, Chairman MC Kulgam Avinash Bhatt said that the land for public toilets was being identified. “Soon there will public toilets from Chawalgam to Laroo,” he added.