Shanghai'S first "unisex" public toilet will go into operation in Pudong New Area before November 19, the World Toilet Day, as the city seeks to flexibly improve the efficiency of toilet use, the city's public sanitation authorities announced today.
The newly-built facility has 10 toilet stalls that can be used by both male and female.
It is located at the intersection of Zhangjiabang Road and Pudong Road S. where there are many joggers and walkers, officials said.
Jiang Ruizhi, an official in charge of the operation of the toilet with the Shanghai Greenery and Public Sanitation Bureau, said toilet users' privacy and safety have been given consideration.
There is a separate room designed for people who need others' help when using toilet inside the 100-square-meter facility.
Parents with both male or female children and adults accompanying seniors or disabled people of both sexes are able to use the room.
Another separate room inside the toilet has male urinals.
Opinions vary over the toilet's opening.
"I think the toilet will provide convenience for both men and women because it can be used flexibly and save time," said Qian Liang, a male bank staff worker and a night run lover.
But some expressed concern.
"It is very embarrassing," said Lily Wu, a university student.
"I will not feel comfortable using the facility with another man using it at the same time at a cubicle just beside me," said Wu.
