Pune Launches City’s First Air-Conditioned Public Toilet In Baner For Rs 87 Lakh”

By Prashant for PuneriPages.in

So, Pune just got its first-ever air-conditioned public toilet, right in Baner. Sounds fancy, huh? Solar panels, separate sections for men, women, and differently-abled folks, sanitary pad vending machines—the works. Honestly, it feels like a little slice of the future.

But here’s the thing that’s got everyone talking: this toilet cost a whopping Rs 87 lakh! Yes, you read that right—87 lakh rupees for a single public loo. And that’s where the debate begins.

What Exactly Does Rs 87 Lakh Buy?

Let’s be real—this isn’t your usual roadside toilet. This one’s got AC, solar power to save on electricity, and all the modern comforts you’d expect in a well-maintained space. So it’s high quality, no doubt about that.

It’s designed to be user-friendly for everyone, and it’s in a busy area of Baner where people actually need good facilities. The idea, as the city officials say, is to set a “world-class” example for Pune’s public hygiene.

But Wait—What Else Could We Have Done With That Money?

Here’s the kicker: the same Rs 87 lakh could have funded 15 to 20 regular public toilets across the city—clean, basic, and accessible toilets in areas that badly need them.

Lots of Pune neighborhoods still don’t have enough toilets. People often walk far just to find a clean place. So, while this AC toilet is great for Baner, the question is: are we ignoring the bigger sanitation picture?

The Arguments Flying Around

Supporters say:

“This is a pilot project to show what’s possible. Baner is a busy, upscale area, so it deserves a top-notch facility. Plus, because it’s built well, it might save money on repairs later.”

Critics say:

“This feels like a vanity project. Fancy toilets are great, but what about the parts of Pune that don’t even have basic ones? Plus, who’s going to pay the electricity bills for that AC? Isn’t public money better spent making sure everyone has decent toilets?”

The Big Questions That Still Need Answers

How much will it cost each year to keep this place running?
Will users have to pay to use it? That could be a problem for some.
Is this the start of many such toilets, or just a one-time showpiece?
How will the city decide if this expensive experiment actually worked?

Quick Facts You Should Know

📍 Location: Baner, near the bus stand
💸 Cost: Rs 87 lakh
⚡ Features: AC, solar panels, sanitary pad vending, disabled access

So, What’s the Real Deal Here?

I get it—Pune wants to step up its sanitation game and bring in modern facilities. And honestly, that’s something to cheer for. But when you’re talking almost a crore of rupees for one toilet, it’s hard not to wonder if the money could’ve been used smarter—like building more toilets for neighborhoods that don’t have any.

At the end of the day, this toilet is a test case. Will it prove that investing in high-end facilities pays off, or will it show that we need to focus more on widespread access before luxury?

Only time will tell.

If you’re curious, you can check it out yourself—it’s right by the Baner bus stand. And hey, tell me what you think—is this a cool step forward or a case of misplaced priorities? Drop your thoughts in the comments!