Patan Durbar Square gets new restrooms

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, May 5: Lalitpur Metropolitan City (LMC) has inaugurated a modern public toilet in the Patan Durbar Square area, aimed at serving both domestic and international tourists.

The facility officially came into operation on Sunday. 

Speaking at a programme organised to announce the opening, Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan said that although the construction took longer than expected, it has been successfully completed.

“We have built these toilets to reflect the originality of our city, and they will now provide much-needed convenience for both local and international tourists,” said Mayor Maharjan. “Visitors to the Patan Durbar Square area will no longer need to search for restroom facilities.”

He further added that the new facility is a "showcase project," not only for the metropolis but also for other municipalities across the country. While there were existing public toilets in the Patan Durbar Square area, they were insufficient to meet the growing demand.

The modern facility is also designed to be accessible and inclusive. It features three toilets for men, six for women, one disability-friendly unit, and a breastfeeding room. It is equipped with contemporary sanitary fixtures.

Rekha Das Shrestha, Chief Administrative Officer of LMC, said the toilet was constructed with careful consideration of the historical and archaeological significance of the area.

“This project is a fusion of heritage and modernity,” she said, emphasising that the design and materials used reflect the traditional architecture of the region. The structure incorporates wooden carvings and limestone, while the roof is constructed with traditional jhingati tiles on both sides.

According to LMC, the total cost of the project was Rs. 12.6 million.