Introduction
Inadequate public sanitation facilities were a major concern in the slums and villages at Rajam. Women suffered the most with no privacy and dignity.

As a response to this, the idea of Suvidha toilets was evolved in 1998, when the first Suvidha complex was constructed. At present there are eight such toilet complexes at Rajam.

Objectives To ensure quality toilet facilities for the disadvantaged communities in Rajam

Process At present there are eight Suvidha toilets with about 2600 users per day. Family cards have been issued, through which a family can access Suvidha for just Rs.10/- per month. Today, there are about 650 family card holders at Rajam.

Some of the unique features of Suvidha toilets include:

• Aesthetic and functional set-up
• Standard uniform design
• Ample ventilation
• Feeling of adequate space and cleanliness
• Easy access
• Beautiful landscape

Achievement/ strengths
The initiative succeeded in sensitising and motivating community people to use proper sanitation facilities. About 90% slum dwellers and 50% of the villagers in the target area now use the Suvidha toilets.

The family card system is building a sense of ownership amongst the users. Additionally, Suvidha committees that include representatives from the Suvidha users and the project team have been formed. These committees are functioning well and would act as the corner stone to develop systems and processes to make the Suvidha programme participatory and sustainable.