Tue May 27 10:30:28 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has reversed its decision to charge commuters for using public toilets at 12 Namma Metro stations in Bengaluru. This decision comes after significant public backlash and protests following the introduction of fees earlier in the week – ₹2 for urinals and ₹5 for toilets – managed by Sulabh International. Critics argued the charges were unfair, especially considering the recent fare hike. Following a protest on May 26th, BMRCL has cancelled the contract with Sulabh International and will now directly manage the restrooms, emphasizing that they are a basic necessity and should be free.
**News Article:**
**Bengaluru Metro Backtracks on Toilet Fees After Public Outcry**
**Bengaluru, May 27, 2025** – The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) announced today that it is rescinding its decision to charge commuters for using public restrooms located outside the ticketed zone at 12 Namma Metro stations. The controversial decision, implemented earlier this week, sparked immediate outrage from commuters and activists, leading to protests and widespread criticism.
Under the initial arrangement, managed by non-profit organization Sulabh International, users were charged ₹2 for using urinals and ₹5 for toilets. This move was met with strong opposition, with critics pointing out the unfairness of charging for a basic necessity, especially following a substantial 71% increase in metro fares.
On May 26th, protesters gathered at the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Station at Vidhana Soudha, holding placards and chanting slogans demanding free access to restrooms. Activists argued that BMRCL should treat toilets as essential infrastructure, not a revenue stream.
“We have rolled back the decision and also cancelled the contract with Sulabh International,” a senior BMRCL official told The Hindu. “This was initially done to ensure high-quality maintenance, not for revenue generation. But now, BMRCL will take direct responsibility for maintaining these toilets.”
Activist T. Narasimha Murthy welcomed the reversal, stating, “This is a good decision. Toilets are a basic necessity and should be provided free of cost. Charging for them, especially after the steep hike in fares, is unacceptable.”
BMRCL had previously clarified that toilets within the paid areas of the metro system remained free of charge, and the fees applied only to those accessible to the general public outside the ticketed zone. The U-turn highlights the power of public opinion and the importance of affordable and accessible public amenities in Bengaluru.
First Piper 