In an innovative attempt to address the persistent issue of public urination and littering in the city, the Rohtak Municipal Corporation (MC) has launched a unique social experiment at the Sheela Bypass. A mirror has been installed on a wall that was frequently used as a spot for public urination, despite the presence of a public toilet nearby.The wall, adorned with paintings and beautification work undertaken by the civic body, had repeatedly been defaced by individuals relieving themselves in the open. Apart from damaging the artwork, the unhygienic practice created an unpleasant environment for pedestrians passing through the area.“The idea behind installing the mirror is based on behavioural psychology. People are generally less likely to engage in undesirable activities when confronted with their own reflection. We hope the mirror will act as a silent deterrent and encourage citizens to use nearby toilet facilities instead,” said Municipal Commissioner Narendra Kumar.According to sources, the MC has identified several other locations across the city where open urination is a major problem. Most of these spots are situated beneath overbridges, including areas near the Old ITI Ground and along Jind Road. Similar interventions may soon be introduced at these locations as part of the corporation’s broader cleanliness drive.Kumar pointed out that Rohtak had more than 90 public toilets that were maintained regularly for public use. Despite the availability of these facilities, some residents continue to resort to open urination, posing challenges to sanitation and urban aesthetics.“We appeal to citizens to support the initiative and contribute towards keeping public spaces clean. Community participation, coupled with innovative solutions such as the mirror experiment, can go a long way in improving civic hygiene and preserving the city’s beautification efforts,” Kumar added.As part of its efforts to curb the menace of garbage dumping, the Rohtak MC has also initiated the installation of CCTV cameras at garbage vulnerable points (GVPs) across the city. “Four such locations have already been brought under surveillance, with more set to be covered in the coming days. Clear warning boards have been installed at every camera location, informing the public that the area is under CCTV surveillance. In addition, videos of the violators will be displayed on LED screens installed at Delhi Bypass and Medical Mor Chowk so that those responsible for littering and dirtying Rohtak city can be publicly identified. The motive is to discourage illegal waste disposal, identify violators and promote responsible waste management practices,” said Kumar.“Besides installing benches outside the Raj Cinema site, we have beautified the area with scenery to discourage people from dumping waste. The idea is to encourage public use of the space since a well-maintained and frequented area is less likely to attract littering. This location had emerged as a major unauthorised dumping point, with large quantities of waste being discarded daily along the roadside, creating an unsightly image of the city. We are working to transform such spots into clean and welcoming public spaces,” added Kumar.