Kerala High Court: Petrol Pump Toilets Not for General Public Use

Kerala, India: The Kerala High Court has clarified that toilets at petrol pumps are meant only for customers and not for unrestricted use by the general public. The verdict comes after a legal petition sought to make petrol pump restrooms accessible to everyone, citing public hygiene concerns and lack of sanitation facilities.

⚖️ Court's Stand

In its ruling, the court stated that petrol pump restrooms are private facilities maintained by fuel station operators for their customers—those purchasing fuel or using related services. It emphasized that:

> “Toilets provided at petrol pumps are for the use of customers, not the general public.”

The court added that it is the government's responsibility to ensure proper public sanitation infrastructure, not private businesses like fuel stations.

Why the Petition Was Filed

The petitioner argued that in many areas—especially highways and rural parts—public toilets are either unavailable or poorly maintained. As a result, people often turn to fuel stations for basic needs. The plea was meant to make such toilets accessible to all, regardless of fuel purchase.

However, pump owners raised valid concerns:

Misuse of facilities

Lack of maintenance funds

Increased hygiene issues and damage

No obligation under current law to offer open access

💬 Public Response

The decision has triggered debates on social media and civic forums.

Supporters say petrol pumps are not public property and cannot be forced to act like public toilets.

Critics argue that until India fixes its lack of public sanitation, such facilities should remain open in emergencies.

🏛️ What This Means

You can use petrol pump toilets only if you’re a customer.

No legal right exists for the general public to use them without availing services.

The court has directed attention toward local authorities and government to build and maintain public toilets across Kerala.