Lack of functional toilets at Nungambakkam railway stn annoys passengers

Chennai: For thousands commuting through Nungambakkam railway station, the lack of a functional washroom facility within the station is painful. Commuters say it is a daily ordeal, especially for the elderly, women and those with health issues.The station sees a daily footfall of at least 40,000 commuters. The restroom built on the Choolaimedu side of the railway station has been shut for more than a month and is currently being used as a storage space for the ongoing platform renovation work. A disabled-friendly restroom near the entrance also remains shut.At present, the only option for commuters is a pay-and-use toilet outside the station, which requires climbing down a flight of stairs. "It is often crowded during peak hours and is unclean. "It is difficult for elderly passengers to reach the pay-and-use facility. Many end up using the tracks instead, as the washroom is now locked," said M Vijayalakshmi, a senior citizen.For those working within the station, the inconvenience is more pronounced. Nandhini T, a shopkeeper, said using the pay-and-use toilet outside the station is challenging when she is alone at work. "If I am the only person in the shop, I cannot step out immediately. I have to wait for someone to come and take charge. It takes nearly 20 minutes to walk and return," she said.S Alokyaraj, a regular commuter, questioned why a disabled-friendly restroom was constructed if it was not going to be opened. Pavitra D, a college student, said even a basic cost-effective restroom booth inside the station could help commuters. She added that the washroom in the poorly-lit Choolaimedu side deters users on account of safety concerns.A Railway official said inspection will be conducted in all suburban stations this week and action will be taken to fix defunct RO systems and locked washrooms.