JOIN USGreen ‘hi-tech toilets’ that require users to swipe smart cards for accessing the paid facility are likely soon in South Extension and Hauz Khas.
These toilets will be in addition to several such free toilets that would recycle the waste and use solar energy. The proposal is part of a first-of-its-kind initiative by the Delhi Urban Art Commission to set up pre-fabricated loos — for both women and men, said an official of the commission.
“We want to make these toilets free to the public. Chances are that in certain upscale areas, they will operate on a pay-and-use basis. In DDA areas and slums, these will be absolutely free,” Raj Rewal, chairperson DUAC, said.
If chargeable, residents just might have to swipe smartcards to use such high-tech toilets, he said. “As a pilot project, we will start the first free toilet near gate number six of RML Hospital on Old RK Ashram Marg in a month’s time,” Bharat Chugh, architect consultant of the project.
“It will be an aluminium honeycombed panel structure. For eco-friendly waste disposal, bio-digesters will be used,” Chugh added. A bio-digester is an eco-friendly solution for human waste management. It helps treat biodegradable waste.
“With the installation of bio-digesters, the only end product is water. Following chlorination, this water can be used for horticultural purposes,” said Rajeev Gaur, DUAC assistant secretary. The high-tech toilets are likely to have solar panels with LED lights that may also be used for advertisement panels on their walls. The DUAC had organised a competition inviting entries for designs of hi-tech toilets.
Currently, four prototypes have been chosen for the pilot project. “We plan to install easy-to-use toilets for improving the hygiene conditions in the city. If we are successful in setting up these toilets in DDA areas and slums, it will redress the current situation where almost 25 lakh women do not have proper access to toilets,” said Rewal.
While the cost for constructing the first prototype is Rs 7.5 lakh, the cost of subsequent ones may come down to Rs 1 lakh each.