Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 02 May 2024
The iconic Gandhi Statue, nestled in Mohanpura Near Aberdeen Bazaar, serves as the heart of Port Blair City, drawing locals and tourists alike. However, a disturbing eyesore mars the area’s charm: a stinky and filthy urinal, towering near the Auto Stand, emitting a pungent odour detectable from 20 meters away.
Despite sporadic renovations over the years, the urinal remains a blight on the landscape due to its flawed design and location. Residents lament the lack of proper upkeep and the inefficacy of past restoration efforts. One major grievance is the absence of running water, forcing users to manually flush the urinal with water sourced from a tank outside—a practice contributing to its dismal state.
Primarily serving auto drivers, shopkeepers, and shoppers frequenting Aberdeen Bazaar, the urinal falls under the jurisdiction of the Port Blair Municipal Council (PBMC). Yet, PBMC’s negligence is evident in the deplorable condition of this vital amenity.
Compounding the issue is the outlet pipes’ discharge into an open drain behind the urinal, exacerbating the foul odor that pervades the area. This oversight underscores the urgent need for comprehensive renovation or replacement of the facility.
Residents are vocal about their dissatisfaction, calling on PBMC to address the situation promptly. Suggestions range from a complete overhaul to constructing a modern facility with state-of-the-art amenities, aligning with the council’s purported commitment to city cleanliness.
“It’s ironic that PBMC boasts of city cleanliness while neglecting such a prominent eyesore,” remarked a disgruntled local, echoing the sentiments of many residents.
As complaints mount and frustration simmers, all eyes are on PBMC to rectify the situation and restore dignity to this vital public space. Failure to act swiftly risks tarnishing the city’s reputation and undermining public trust in municipal authorities.
For now, the stench from the urinal remains a potent reminder of the pressing need for action.