Core Points - The article discusses the issue of long queues for women's restrooms, highlighting the need for a more equitable distribution of restroom facilities based on gender differences in usage time and frequency [1][6][19] - Gansu Province has become the first region in China to legislate a specific ratio of women's to men's restroom facilities, mandating a ratio of 3:2 in urban public restrooms and 2:1 in high-traffic areas [1][8][19] Summary by Sections Legislative Changes - The "Gansu Women's Rights Protection Regulations" came into effect in August, establishing a legal framework for restroom ratios [1][8] - This regulation marks a shift from soft recommendations to hard legal requirements, enhancing the enforcement of restroom facility standards [8][19] Current Standards and Practices - Existing standards, such as the "Urban Public Toilet Design Standards," recommend a 3:2 ratio for women's to men's restrooms, but many areas still implement a 1:1 ratio [2][6] - Various cities have adopted local standards, with some allowing for flexible designs like unisex restrooms [2][3] Challenges in Implementation - Many public restrooms are currently designed with insufficient women's facilities, often leading to long wait times, especially in high-traffic areas [6][13][19] - Structural limitations and cost considerations hinder the retrofitting of existing facilities to meet new standards [9][19] Innovative Solutions - Some cities, like Shenzhen, are piloting "tide toilets" that allow for flexible use of restroom space based on demand [12] - The use of technology, such as IoT devices, is being explored to optimize restroom usage and adjust the ratio of facilities dynamically [12] Broader Implications - The legislation in Gansu is seen as a step towards recognizing women's rights in public services, emphasizing that equitable access to restrooms is a fundamental aspect of social justice [7][19] - The article calls for more regions to adopt similar regulations to improve public restroom accessibility for women, thereby enhancing overall urban service equity [19]