In a significant move aimed at tackling a common travel inconvenience, the Kerala government is rolling out a digital solution to help tourists and locals find clean and accessible public restrooms. The 'KLOO' mobile application, developed as part of the 'Waste-Free Nava Keralam' campaign, promises to be a game-changer for hygiene and convenience across the state.
Official Launch and Key Features
Local Self-Government Minister M B Rajesh will officially inaugurate the KLOO system at the Mascot Hotel in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday. The event will be presided over by Vattiyoorkavu MLA V K Prasanth, with Planning Board member Jiju P Alex as the chief guest. Representatives from various government bodies, the travel industry, and private partners are expected to attend.
The core functionality of the app is straightforward yet powerful. Using Google Maps integration, users can instantly locate restrooms near their current location. Beyond just finding a facility, the app provides real-time details including operating hours, available amenities like parking, and user ratings to ensure quality and reliability.
Expanding the Network for Maximum Impact
What makes this initiative particularly ambitious is its inclusive network. While it starts with public restrooms managed by local self-government institutions, the project has successfully partnered with the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association. This collaboration brings high-standard restrooms from private hotels and restaurants into the fold, significantly expanding the number of clean options available to the public.
The technical development of the KLOO app was handled by Frugal Scientific Pvt Ltd, ensuring a robust and user-friendly platform. The rollout will be phased, with the initial focus on major tourist circuits and national highways within Kerala. The plan is to gradually expand the service across the entire state in the coming months by onboarding more local bodies and private establishments.
A Boost for Tourism and Public Health
This digital intervention is set to provide immense relief to key groups including women, children, and long-distance travelers, who often face the greatest difficulty in finding sanitary facilities. By addressing this basic but critical need, the Kerala government aims to substantially enhance the overall tourist experience.
The initiative is a strategic step towards solidifying Kerala's reputation as a world-class, hygiene-conscious destination. A reliable and widespread network of clean restrooms directly contributes to public health and comfort, factors that are increasingly important for modern travelers when choosing a destination. The 'KLOO' app, therefore, is more than just a utility; it's a tool for elevating the state's global tourism brand.
