The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has a reputation for its innovative and progressive approach to cleanliness. In keeping with their commitment to innovation, a dedicated restroom has been established in Kopri village, Vashi, to cater to the needs of third-gender citizens. This initiative is part of the ‘Swachhata Hi Seva’ campaign.
The inauguration of this inclusive restroom recently took place, with prominent third-gender individuals like Anita Wadekar, Meera Pujari, Kalpana Pujari, Berlin, and Adah Jha in attendance. NMMC has constructed a total of 313 public and 297 community restrooms throughout the city. These facilities’ locations are easily accessible on Google Maps, making it convenient for citizens, commuters, and tourists to locate nearby restroom facilities. Recognizing the importance of third-gender citizens in society, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation has actively involved them in sanitation initiatives and various social activities. The NGO ‘Let’s Celebrate Fitness’ has played a crucial role in integrating them into mainstream employment.
A demand for a separate restroom for third-gender individuals in the Turbhe ward within the NMMC’s jurisdiction, where a significant population of third-gender residents resides, was addressed by Municipal Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar. As a result, a specialized, separate restroom facility was constructed in Kopri village.
Previously, third-gender individuals had to use men’s restrooms, which was not suitable for their needs. Therefore, dedicated restroom facilities have been provided in areas where they live in significant numbers, featuring eight sitting toilet units. The construction cost for this project amounted to Rs 9 lakh.
