New Delhi: Mysuru civic authorities have installed reflective steel mirrors along some pavements and roadsides to prevent open urination. The idea is simple yet psychological, encouraging self-awareness through reflection.
These mirrors confront someone attempting to urinate at these spots with their own reflection. Authorities believe this moment of self-recognition could make people pause and think twice before engaging in the act, reported the Deccan Herald.
Soon after the creative problem-solving endeavour, videos started circulating on social media showing the large, polished steel mirrors. One such mirror was spotted near a wall opposite the suburban bus stand, which was once an unhygienic corner.
“Whoever came up with this idea deserves nothing less than a Nobel… Genius,” wrote an X user, sharing a video from the area.
“It’s crazy the things we need to do in India to enforce basic civic sense among adults,” another posted.
While many people praised the idea of installing mirrors to discourage public urination, some also pointed out that the city urgently needs more public toilets that are properly maintained and accessible at minimal cost.
People also pointed out that installing mirrors won’t solve the problem but just divert it.
“Brilliant idea to place mirror in public peeing spot. But doesn’t that mean more public toilets need to be built & maintained it well, perhaps with minimal charges, to solve the problem? Otherwise, people will find a new spot,” one tweet read.
Others called it “money down the drain.”
“The offenders are shameless. Strict penalties for offenders seems to be the only way ahead,” read one post.
“It is not solving the problem but diverting it,” another wrote.
(Edited by Insha Jalil Waziri)