Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban

Swachhata Sevi Kiran and Geeta from Chandigarh, Gorakhpur's Rani devi are scripting new stories for SBM-U in the realm of urban sanitation

Under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, toilet caretakers have emerged as pivotal figures in transforming urban sanitation. Their roles go beyond simply maintaining cleanliness; they are at the forefront of promoting hygiene, educating communities, and ensuring the proper functioning of sanitation facilities. These caretakers are instrumental in enhancing the overall user experience, from maintaining cleanliness to managing waste disposal effectively. By providing essential services such as regular cleaning, waste segregation, and hygiene awareness, toilet caretakers play a critical role in achieving the mission’s goals. Their dedication and innovative approaches are redefining urban sanitation, ensuring that public toilets are not only functional but also contribute to the larger vision of a Swachh Bharat.

In the bustling union territory of Chandigarh, a quiet revolution is taking place in the realm of urban sanitation. Meet Kiran, a swachhata Sevi - a toilet caretaker who, like many others in cities across India, is a key player in the Swachh Bharat Mission’s efforts to redefine urban cleanliness. Struggling to make ends meet, Kiran took to caretaking a toilet in Chandigarh. Kiran shares that joining the cleaning brigade has transformed her life. Not only has her lifestyle improved, but the steady income she now earns has allowed her to elevate both her and her family's standard of living, providing them with better opportunities and a brighter future.

Kiran starts her day early, long before the Chandigarh wakes up. With a broom in hand and a bucket of cleaning supplies by her side, she enters one of the many public toilets in the heart of the city. Her task isn’t just to sweep the floors and mop the walls; it's to ensure that every inch of the facility is sanitized, the waste is correctly disposed of, and that users feel comfortable in a clean environment. For Rekha, the job is more than routine. It's about pride, responsibility, and the impact she has on the health and hygiene of the community. She greets each visitor with a smile and often uses the opportunity to share hygiene tips, teaching locals about the importance of handwashing and the proper use of sanitation facilities. Another Swachhata Sevi, Geeta, has triumphed over personal challenges and emerged as a true champion in her journey. She has not only overcome her own battles but has also made a significant impact by managing public toilets in Chandigarh. Through her tireless efforts, she continues to champion the cause of cleanliness, spreading the vital message of maintaining hygienic and well- kept public facilities for the community.

In cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai, toilet caretakers like Kiran are driving significant changes in urban sanitation. In Jaipur, Ajay Kumar, the caretaker of a Shulabh Shauchalaya, has taken it upon himself to not only maintain cleanliness but also educate citizens on proper toilet etiquette. Through his daily efforts, he sets a high standard of hygiene and cleanliness, inspiring others to follow suit. He proudly expresses his satisfaction in contributing to the Swachh Bharat Mission, knowing that his efforts help foster a healthier environment for everyone.

MD Irfan, a member of the Korutla Auto Drivers Union in Telangana, has led a remarkable initiative to improve public sanitation by adopting the toilet near the auto stand in Ward 15. Working with fellow auto drivers, he secured daily contributions of ₹10 per driver, generating ₹15,000 monthly for maintenance. The ULB Commissioner also provided funding for cleaning staff salaries, easing the union’s financial burden. This collaboration has transformed the once neglected toilet into a clean, accessible facility, eliminating open urination and serving 100% of visitors, showcasing the power of community effort for Swachhata.

Mrs. B. Lalhmingthangi’s story is one of resilience and determination. Since 2019, she has managed the Tuikhuah Veng Public Toilet in Serchhip, balancing the responsibility of maintaining the facility while running a small grocery shop on the premises. Her efforts have turned a simple task into a vital community service.

The public toilet generates an average monthly income of over Rs. 5,000, which covers operational costs and provides a steady income for Mrs. Lalhmingthangi. Her dedication has not only supported her family but also improved sanitation for the people of Serchhip.

The commitment of care takers of community and public toilets to public health and hygiene makes them unsung heroes, contributing significantly to the well-being of communities across urban India.