Nungambakkam Railway Station's Washroom Crisis: A Daily Struggle for Thousands
For the thousands of daily commuters passing through Nungambakkam railway station in Chennai, the absence of a functional washroom facility has become a painful and persistent issue. This daily ordeal is particularly challenging for the elderly, women, and individuals with health conditions, who face significant inconvenience due to the lack of accessible sanitation options.
Station Footfall and Closed Facilities
Nungambakkam station experiences a daily footfall of at least 40,000 commuters, making the washroom shortage a critical public health concern. The restroom located on the Choolaimedu side of the station has been shut for over a month and is currently repurposed as a storage space for ongoing platform renovation work. Additionally, a disabled-friendly restroom near the entrance remains locked, further exacerbating the problem for passengers with mobility issues.
Limited Options and Commuter Complaints
Currently, the only available option for commuters is a pay-and-use toilet situated outside the station, which requires descending a flight of stairs. This facility is often overcrowded during peak hours and maintains poor cleanliness standards. M Vijayalakshmi, a senior citizen, highlighted the difficulties, stating, "It is difficult for elderly passengers to reach the pay-and-use facility. Many end up using the tracks instead, as the washroom is now locked."
Impact on Station Workers and Safety Concerns
For those employed within the station, such as shopkeepers, the inconvenience is even more pronounced. Nandhini T, a shopkeeper, explained, "If I am the only person in the shop, I cannot step out immediately. I have to wait for someone to come and take charge. It takes nearly 20 minutes to walk and return." Regular commuter S Alokyaraj questioned the rationale behind constructing a disabled-friendly restroom if it remains inaccessible. College student Pavitra D suggested that even a basic, cost-effective restroom booth inside the station could alleviate commuter woes, noting that the poorly-lit Choolaimedu side washroom also raises safety concerns, deterring users.
Railway Official Response and Future Actions
In response to the growing complaints, a Railway official announced that inspections will be conducted across all suburban stations this week. Action will be taken to address defunct RO systems and locked washrooms, aiming to restore essential facilities and improve commuter comfort. This move is expected to bring relief to the thousands affected by the ongoing washroom crisis at Nungambakkam station.
