The DU authorities seem to have no headache to improve the condition of the toilets built in 1960s. The problem is worsening with the increase in the number of students.

The students and teachers have repeatedly complained of the unhygienic condition of the toilets but no action has been taken so far.

"I do not use these toilets unless it is emergency. We have to enter the toilets covering our noses with handkerchiefs," said Jewel, a fourth-year student of Library and Information Science Department at the university.

The toilets for female students are in same condition. "There are five toilets in our common room and two of them are closed. Hundreds of female students use the other three toilets that always remain dirty," said Jabin Sultana, a student of Sociology.

"Sometimes I go to the IBA (Institute of Business Administration) or Commerce Faculty building which is nearby to use the toilet," said Afroza Begum, a student of Mass Communication and Journalism Department.

The students allege the toilets are not cleaned regularly. Only 12 cleaners are engaged in cleaning 18 toilets on different floors of the Arts Building.

Apart from the students, outsiders including vendors and rickshaw-pullers also use the toilets at the building.

When asked, Jahanara Begum who cleans the toilets on the ground floor said, "It is not possible for only 12 cleaners to keep all the toilets clean."

A senior medical officer of the university medical centre however said if the toilet users are conscious, this unhygienic condition can be overcome.

Dr Sadrul Amin, the dean of Arts Faculty, also stressed the need for more awareness of the toilet users to maintain the toilets properly.

Mokbul Hossain, the supervisor of Arts Building, said the water lines have to be repaired and drainage system improved to keep the toilets usable.

Sources said the university has a very small budget for cleaning the Arts Building.