In a significant boost for women’s safety and comfort, Uttar Pradesh railway stations are set for a major upgrade. Across 640 stations in the state, authorities plan to construct 1,680 new toilets exclusively for female passengers. This initiative, particularly beneficial for women traveling from small towns and rural areas, addresses a longstanding gap in basic amenities.
Uttar Pradesh Women’s Commission Vice-Chairperson Aparna Yadav announced the development, praising it as a vital step for women’s health and security. Speaking to the media, she highlighted how clean facilities at stations can prevent disease spread from unhygienic conditions. Yadav expressed gratitude to the railway department for prioritizing this proposal and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fostering a nationwide push towards women’s empowerment, which has prompted various sectors to enhance facilities for women.
The issue of inadequate toilets for women has plagued railway stations for years, especially smaller ones. Passenger associations had repeatedly raised concerns with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, leading to this targeted response. The project covers key divisions including Lucknow and Moradabad under Northern Railway, Lucknow, Izzatnagar, and Varanasi under North Eastern Railway, and Agra, Jhansi, and Prayagraj under North Central Railway.
While major stations already offer decent amenities, rural outposts have forced women into uncomfortable situations. These new toilets promise safe, clean, and dignified options, safeguarding health and making journeys smoother. This move signals a positive shift, underscoring the government’s commitment to gender-sensitive infrastructure in public transport.