Lucknow, Feb 10 (NationPress) The government of Uttar Pradesh is embarking on a significant initiative to construct 1,680 modern toilets specifically for women at 640 railway stations throughout the state. Aparna Yadav, Vice Chairperson of the Uttar Pradesh Women’s Commission, referred to this development as a crucial advancement for women’s health, dignity, and safety.

Aparna Yadav expressed her approval of the initiative, commending the state government and the Railway Department for emphasizing women-friendly infrastructure at railway stations, particularly in rural and smaller regions.

In an interview with IANS, she stated, “This move is vital for women’s health, self-respect, and safety. It is truly a commendable initiative that the Railway Department has proposed. I extend my gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his role in promoting women’s issues.”

She also emphasized that having separate and clean toilets for women at railway stations is a necessity and will convey a powerful message regarding women’s dignity in public spaces.

“The government is taking women empowerment seriously. Establishing separate facilities will also convey an important message, reflecting pride. The cleanliness of bathrooms is paramount since many issues arise from using unsanitary facilities,” she noted during her conversation with IANS.

Highlighting the diverse demographics served by railway stations, Aparna Yadav pointed out that women travelers frequently encounter challenges due to inadequate and unsafe washroom facilities, particularly at stations with limited infrastructure.

“Women will now feel more at ease. Railway stations cater to a wide array of individuals, not just those with formal education. People from various backgrounds utilize the rail network at any time. This initiative is indeed a welcome change, and I commend both the government and the Railway Department,” she concluded.

According to the plan, 1,680 toilets will be constructed at 640 stations, including prominent ones like Charbagh, Alamnagar, Utretia, and Malhaur. The Railway Board has provisionally approved the project, with an estimated cost of approximately Rs 84 crore. The initial phase will see an allocation of Rs 15 crore.

The absence of toilets for women at railway stations has been a persistent issue in Uttar Pradesh. Previously, the Daily Passengers Association had raised concerns with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, leading to the Railways responding and advancing this proposal.

The project will encompass stations from various railway zones, including Northern Railway (Lucknow and Moradabad divisions), North Eastern Railway (Lucknow, Izzatnagar, and Varanasi divisions), and North Central Railway (Agra, Jhansi, and Prayagraj divisions).

Railway officials acknowledged that while major stations already offer sufficient amenities, women travelers often encounter significant difficulties at smaller stations. Thus, the initiative aims to enhance facilities in rural and semi-urban areas, where such provisions have been scarce.

With the establishment of these toilets, it is anticipated that thousands of women passengers will benefit from safer and more hygienic facilities during their travels.