Patna: The Bihar government has launched an initiative to build pink toilets exclusively for women across public spaces in the state, aiming to enhance access to safe, hygienic, and private sanitation facilities. The project falls under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) 2.0 and is part of the state’s broader effort to support women’s safety and empowerment.
Announcing the plan, Urban Development and Housing Minister Jivesh Kumar described the pink toilets as “a new initiative towards providing cleanliness and facilities to women in the state”. These dedicated facilities will be both operated and used by women.
A total of 100 toilet seats are to be constructed in 16 municipal bodies, with 70 seats funded through the Swachh Bharat Mission and 30 through the state plan. The government has allocated Rs 2.5 crore for the project.
The pink-coloured units will feature amenities such as electricity, running water, sanitary pad dispensers, and waste disposal systems. Female caretakers will be appointed to manage the facilities, and helpline numbers will be prominently displayed to ensure additional safety and support.
Department Secretary Abhay Kumar Singh listed the municipalities that will receive the new facilities, including Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Bihar Sharif, Purnia, Sasaram, Sitamarhi, Rajgir, Bodhgaya, Sultanganj, Bhabua, Barhiya, Buxar, Jale, Singhwara, Kamtaul-Ahiari, and Dev.
The initiative aims not only to address the lack of sanitation infrastructure for women but also to create safer public environments and reduce the risks of sexual harassment in shared spaces.
“This effort is a step toward preserving the dignity and health of women,” Kumar added, “and an important part of our commitment to women’s empowerment in Bihar.”
