Kerala High Court Restrains Authorities from Treating Toilets at Private Fuel Station as Public Toilets

The Kerala High Court has issued an interim order restraining the State Government and local bodies from designating toilets at private petrol pumps as public facilities. 

The order came in response to a petition by Petroleum Trade Dealers challenging a government directive mandating that their restroom facilities be accessible to the general public.

The court emphasized that private establishments cannot be compelled to provide public amenities without proper legal backing or compensation. The Court noted that pump toilets are intended for customers and emergencies, public access causes crowding, operational issues, and heightens fire risks at hazardous sites. 

The court directed authorities not to compel access, and the matter will be heard further after the state's response.