The Maharashtra Public Works Department (PWD) has embarked on a major initiative to address the long-standing issue of inadequate public sanitation facilities along the state’s highways. In a move that promises relief to lakhs of travellers, the department has announced plans to construct 400 permanent toilets along key state highways. The project comes after repeated complaints from citizens about the lack of clean and accessible toilets, especially for women and families travelling long distances.
PWD Minister Ravindra Chavan confirmed that the department aims to complete the construction of these toilets within the next six months. The government has already identified dedicated spaces at over 200 locations for the new facilities, and the process of finalising land availability at additional sites is underway. In many cases, government land will be used, but the department is also open to acquiring private land if necessary. The PWD has directed its engineers to complete the land identification and verification process within the next two to three months.
CSR Support Invited
To ensure the project’s success and sustainability, the PWD is seeking active participation from private players through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding. The department has invited proposals from various stakeholders, including public sector oil companies, who have already submitted several plans to set up toilets at upcoming petrol pumps along highways. The government’s approach is not limited to just building the toilets; it also includes a clear plan for ongoing maintenance and operation. Contractors and, in some cases, women self-help groups will be made responsible for maintaining the facilities to ensure cleanliness and usability.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to implement government resolutions on highway sanitation issued in 2016 and 2017, which had not been fully realised until now. The PWD has also decided that the new toilets will be permanent structures, rejecting earlier proposals for temporary or fibre-reinforced plastic units. The aim is to provide durable, hygienic, and user-friendly facilities that will serve the public for years to come.
The department has set a target to have these toilets spaced at regular intervals along the highway network, which covers nearly one lakh kilometres across the state. This will ensure that travellers will not have to go long distances without access to basic sanitation. The PWD will also use a mobile application to help people locate the nearest toilet facility while on the move.
CSR funding has played a significant role in similar sanitation projects across India, with companies often supporting the construction and maintenance of toilets in public spaces as part of their community development efforts. The PWD’s call for CSR support is expected to attract interest from both public and private sector organisations committed to improving public health and sanitation.
With this ambitious project, the Maharashtra government hopes to set a new benchmark in public convenience and hygiene on state highways, making travel safer and more comfortable for all. The success of this initiative will depend not only on timely construction but also on robust maintenance and community participation, ensuring that the new facilities remain clean, safe, and accessible for everyone.
