In the absence of a public toilet, some 22 cloth vendors at the Gelegphu Industrial Centre have been relieving themselves in the nearby houses or behind the bushes. They were relocated to the present location in the beginning of this year.
The vendors are temporarily relocated as their old market shed is being used to construct a new two-storied vegetable market. It will complete next year. Without a public toilet, it has been difficult for the vendors of whom most are women.
“It has become necessary for one toilet at least. And because of our frequent use, the owner of the canteen gets annoyed. And it’s dangerous to visit the nearby forest as there are leeches and snakes. Toilet has become necessary. It’s embarrassing when customers enquire about a toilet for use,” said Karnamaya Limbu, a cloth vendor.
“We require one toilet. We feel inconvenient visiting another house for toilet. We fear going into the jungle because there are leeches,” said Karma Wangzom, another cloth vendor.
Meanwhile, according to the thromde office, the vendors do not hold business licenses. As a result, the provision for a toilet is not possible.
Moreover, the office added that the vendors are temporarily located.
So, until the new construction is complete, the vendors will have to continue with their current arrangements.
Karma Wangdi, Sarpang
Edited by Sonam Pem
