BARAMULLA, Nov. 12 -- The shortage of public urinals in Baramulla town has emerged as a major civic concern, with residents, traders, students and commuters struggling to find basic sanitation facilities in the busy commercial centre.

Residents and traders allege that at least three public urinals that once served people at important locations have disappeared over the past three decades in the name of development, without adequate alternatives being provided.

Facilities near Karipa Park, Tang Adda, Government Girls Higher Secondary School and bus stand areas are among those cited by locals, who say the town has gradually lost essential public sanitation infrastructure.

The absence of public conveniences has reportedly forced people to...