A revolution in pink : a qualitative analysis of the structure and impact of pink centres in Delhi

Abstract

Sanitation has been recognised as an important human right which lends itself to the realisation of other rights, such as the rights to health, education, work, life and adequate standard of living. Sanitation, when viewed through the lens of gender has deeper complexities and implications. Women have unique physiological needs and therefore require adequate sanitation to achieve parity with their male counterparts. The Pink Centres in Delhi were conceptualised as a means of delivering affordable, equitable and accessible sanitation to women. This study is a qualitative analysis of level of effectiveness of Pink Centres, its management structure, facilities available and neighbourhood and demographic served.

Semi structured interviews with 88 users, 7 WaSH champions (staff employed at ground level) and 78 women in the community reveal that the Centres are contributing to women’s efficiency at work, reduced absenteeism, improved health and hygiene, improved menstrual hygiene management and empowerment of WaSH champions, increased opportunities for female solidarity and bonding. They serve as inclusive spaces with members across caste and class groups accessing the Centres.

The Centres are primarily located in marketplaces and in proximity to juggi-jhopris, shops and private bungalows. They are accessed by women who are employed in the vicinity, domestic workers, blue collar workers and passersby. The Centres are equipped with ramps, steady supply of water, bathing units, breastfeeding stations and clean and hygienic facilities.

The Pink Centres function on a public-private partnership model between PVR NEST and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. They have been operationalised by refurbishing erstwhile government toilet infrastructure. The finances are borne wholly by PVR NEST. The Centres are creating a significant impact on women’s overall well-being and may be scaled up to reach a larger demographic. More Centres should be built in priority areas and to serve underprivileged communities. Initially, a PPP model is recommended, but the government must take over the management operations (through a smooth transition from private to public hands) after a stipulated period of time for long-term sustainability of the initiative.