Women-only toilet opens at mohakhali bus terminal

Dhaka North City Corporation has launched Bangladesh's first dedicated women-only public toilet, 'Ananya', at the Mohakhali Bus Terminal, with support from WaterAid Bangladesh and the Embassy of Sweden.

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam officiated the inauguration. State Minister Habibur Rashid, MP; Dhaka North City Corporation Administrator Md Shafiqul Islam Khan; and WaterAid Bangladesh Country Director Hasin Jahan also attended the event.

Following the inauguration, dignitaries toured and inspected the new facility.

Shaikh Rabiul Alam praised the initiative, noting it would enhance safety and convenience for women commuters. He expressed hope for the expansion of similar facilities citywide.

WaterAid Bangladesh has long championed safer urban sanitation. The Ananya facility, tailored to women's needs at the bustling Mohakhali bus terminal, will be operated and maintained by non-governmental organisation Bhumijo.

Thousands of women commuters, workers, and pedestrians pass through Mohakhali bus terminal daily, yet previously lacked access to safe and hygienic public sanitation dedicated to women.

Ananya is designed specifically for women, featuring an accessible chamber for users with disabilities to ensure comfort and inclusivity.

Facilities include sanitary pad support, a breastfeeding room for mothers, and a baby changing station to support women travelling with infants.

Hasin Jahan, Country Director of WaterAid Bangladesh, stated, "This is not merely about constructing a toilet; it marks a significant step towards ensuring safe, dignified, and inclusive sanitation for women. We urge authorities to replicate and expand such women-friendly facilities throughout the city."

She added that the initiative is expected to set a new benchmark for healthier and more respectful sanitation environments for women in urban spaces.