Why do women in India not use public toilets?: patterns and determinants of usage by women in Warangal City

This paper is part of an extended study to assess the needs of women for public toilets (PT) and sanitation facilities in the city of Warangal, Telangana, India. A quantitative dip-stick study with a sample size of 197 women followed by 21 in-depth interviews was undertaken among a cross-section of women from various walks of life, different ages and qualifications. From the content analysis of the interviews and network analysis of the most commonly co-occurring words, the broad themes that emerged as sanitation needs of women in public spaces were related to high demand for exclusive toilets for women with specific facilities and caretakers who collect money and keep the toilets clean, with particular need for women caretakers to add to the feeling of security. A strong need greater number of well-maintained sanitation facilities in places such as bus stops and railway stations and access to the toilets from main roads rather from interior roads were other aspects that emerged.