Mobile toilet set up for first time outside JS

Hundreds of people gather around the Jatiya Sangsad (JS) area in Dhaka. Some come to enjoy the open space, others to exercise, meet friends or admire the famous building. For years, however, many visitors faced a problem that was hard to ignore.

The lack of public toilets meant that some people had no choice but to urinate along parts of the Parliament’s outer wall. Over time, the area became known for its unpleasant smell.

Pedestrians, office workers and local residents often complained about the poor conditions around one of the country’s most important landmarks.

A pedestrian Hasan expressed his thought with The New Nation, saying, “It was embarrassing who regularly visits the area. People came here from different places, but there was nowhere for them to go when they needed a toilet.”

The problem affected more than just the appearance of the area. Street vendors, drivers and visitors from outside Dhaka also struggled to find a suitable place to relieve themselves. Many people felt uncomfortable, especially families, women and older visitors.

Now, that situation is beginning to change. Two mobile toilets have recently been installed at the South Plaza of the Parliament complex. The new facilities give visitors a simple but important service that had long been missing.

A vendor who has worked in the area for several years said the difference is already noticeable. “It may look like a small change, but it has solved a real problem for many people,” he said.

The mobile toilets will not solve every challenge facing the area. They will need regular cleaning and proper maintenance. But they are an important step towards making the Parliament area cleaner, more comfortable and more welcoming.

Sometimes, improving a city does not require a major construction project. A clean and accessible public toilet can make a big difference to people’s daily lives and help everyone enjoy public spaces with dignity.