Toilets for Women Now Mandatory at All Petrol Pumps in Uttar Pradesh

 

In a landmark move for public convenience and women's safety, the Uttar Pradesh government has made it mandatory for all petrol pump operators to provide separate toilet facilities for women. The order has been issued under the leadership of the Food and Civil Supplies Department and will be implemented across all districts of the Moradabad division initially.

This directive comes following a recent review by Divisional Commissioner Ajay Kumar Singh, who emphasized the need for gender-sensitive infrastructure. Besides clean toilets, petrol pumps must also provide safe drinking water, sanitary pads, soap, mirrors, dustbins, tissue paper, and disabled-friendly access.

District Supply Officers have been directed to ensure strict compliance. All District Magistrates have been asked to carry out regular inspections, and licenses of non-complying petrol pumps may be suspended or penalized.

This facility will be especially beneficial for women travelers, including elderly and differently-abled individuals who often face great difficulty finding clean and accessible restrooms during long journeys.

To encourage hygienic and user-friendly infrastructure, all petrol pumps must also display:

• Clean washrooms
• Proper ventilation
• Signage in visible locations
• 24/7 access with security

Any violation of the order may result in a fine of ₹10,000 under the provisions of the Essential Commodities Act.