99pc Indian travellers feel need for more toilets: Survey

As the United Nations observed World Toilet Day on Thursday, a recent survey has revealed that 99 per cent Indian travellers need more restrooms facilities and 98 per cent women demand washrooms on highways.

About 99 per cent travellers in the country said there is a need for more toilets across tourism destinations and spots in the country, a survey conducted by travel community HolidayIQ said.

Interestingly, it found that highways were given the highest number of votes on where we need more toilets, topping the list at 92 per cent.

While only 85 per cent male travellers voted for highways, 98 per cent women travellers expressed a need for more toilets on highways, it pointed out.

They also mention toilets are an essential element in planning holidays, especially in deciding the mode of travel, as per the survey.

The survey, conducted over last one week, to understand the current scenario and importance of access to restrooms, while travelling, saw participation of over 32,000 travellers from over 80 Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Pune.

"Of the 2.4 billion people in the world who have no toilets, India accounts for nearly 600 million. Those who have travelled the country will understand the fuss about toilets in India too well.

"Even at some of the world's most frequented sightseeing sites in India, access to toilets is considered a luxury," it said.

With festive tourism growing and travellers heading to destinations with religious and spiritual significance, 86 per cent travellers felt there should be more accessibility to toilets in these places.

About 76 per cent travellers feel that bus stations and buses are other areas that need to have access to clean toilets.

It also revealed that 86 per cent travellers demand cleaner toilets while 71 per cent feel the need for more toilets.

Safety and security accounted for 62 per cent, 56 per cent demand disabled friendly toilets and 37 per cent said there should be feeding rooms for women, it added.