It is always provided free of cost to every citizen.
Explanation
Public facilities refer to essential infrastructure and services-such as water, sanitation, electricity, public transport, schools, and hospitals-that are required to sustain a decent standard of living. A defining feature of these facilities is that they are non-excludable to a large extent, meaning their benefits are shared by the community rather than being restricted to a single individual.
Option Analysis
- It caters to basic needs of the population. is a characteristic: Public facilities are designed to cater to the basic needs of the population, ensuring the right to life and dignity (e.g., safe drinking water, healthcare).
- Its benefits are shared by many people. is a characteristic: The benefits of a public facility are shared by many people. For example, the provision of electricity in an area benefits all residents, and a village school provides education to numerous children.
- It is always provided free of cost to every citizen. is NOT a characteristic: While the government ensures that public facilities are affordable and accessible, they are not always provided free of cost. The government often levies user charges (e.g., electricity bills, water taxes, bus fares) to cover operational costs, ensure sustainability, and prevent wastage, even if these services are subsidized.
- The government usually bears the primary responsibility for its provision. is a characteristic: The government bears the primary responsibility for providing public facilities. This is because private entities operate for profit and may not serve low-income groups or remote areas effectively.
Key Takeaway
Public facilities are essential, shared services provided or regulated by the government to ensure universal access. While they must be affordable, they are not invariably free, as user charges are often applied to maintain the service.