Correspondent
WOKHA, JUL 8 (NPN): Despite being the administrative and commercial hub of Wokha district, the town continues to face a glaring civic shortcoming-the absence of functional public toilets in its main market area.
During a visit by Nagaland Post to the public toilet located at the main town market, the facility, comprising five chambers, was found locked. A nearby shopkeeper said users must obtain the key from the person in charge whenever they need to use the toilet, after which it is locked again. He added that the facility is rarely kept open.
Although a few public toilets were reportedly constructed under the Swachh Bharat Mission, residents and visitors remain without access to one of the most basic amenities. Many are forced to depend on private establishments, seeking permission to use washrooms in cafés, restaurants, petrol pumps and government offices, while access depends on the willingness of staff or owners. Those unable to find a washroom often resort to secluded places, raising concerns over sanitation, hygiene and human dignity.
Shopkeepers, who spend long hours in the market, are among the worst affected. A woman shopkeeper said she and others often resort to urinating in a dustbin inside their shops before disposing of the waste later. Another said he relies on a friend’s rented house or secluded areas.
Residents pointed out that the shortage of accessible public sanitation facilities poses greater challenges for women, particularly during menstruation, as well as for elderly persons, pregnant women, parents with young children and individuals with medical conditions.
They urged the authorities to prioritise establishing functional public toilets at key locations such as the main market, taxi stands and other busy public areas, while ensuring regular maintenance, cleanliness and adequate water supply so that facilities remain open and usable.