Japan’s toilet vehicles provide comfort to evacuees during disasters

The vehicle is equipped with two men’s toilets and two women’s toilets, as well as one for people with particular needs. - Courtesy of the Minami-Awaji city government/The Japan News/ANN

SUMOTO, Hyogo: More and more local governments in Japan are introducing vehicles equipped with toilet facilities to be used in evacuation centres during disasters.

The vehicles attracted attention in the wake of the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake. Despite the disaster, the technology, equipped with air-conditioning, heaters and heated toilet seats, ensured a comfortable restroom environment.