Smart Solar Toilet Installed at Sekerkote H.S. School to Promote Hygiene and Sustainability

In a significant step towards promoting sustainable development and improving sanitation, a Smart Solar Toilet was officially inaugurated at PM SHRI Sekerkote Higher Secondary School in Sekerkote, West Tripura, on November 6, 2025. This cutting-edge facility is a joint initiative between the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST), Shibpur, and the NB. Institute for Rural Technology (NBIRT) Arkaneer, with financial backing from the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.

The smart toilet is built using eco-friendly precast ferro-cement technology and is powered by solar energy. Designed under the guidance of eminent solar scientist Prof. (Dr.) Santipada Gon Chaudhuri, the toilet features solar-powered amenities, including water submersible pumping, exhaust fans, and lighting systems. The toilet is designed to operate efficiently and automatically with sensors that regulate the water flow, drawing water from the submersible pump as needed. Any excess water generated from the system will be repurposed for the school's mid-day meal program and other cleaning activities, ensuring optimal resource use.

The smart toilet is equipped with separate compartments for boys and girls, ensuring privacy, hygiene, and comfort. Its automatic system, which turns on and off based on usage, significantly helps in conserving both energy and water. This initiative blends technology, sanitation, and sustainability, helping to foster scientific awareness and encourage responsible hygiene practices among students.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including:

• Er. Kapil Baran Bhowmik, Vice-President of NBIRT and Project Lead

• Mr. Santosh Kumar RoyChoudhury, Headmaster of Sekerkote H.S. School

• Mr. Sudhir Chandra Das, School Managing Committee Chairman

• Mrs. Jharna Das, Panchayat Pradhan

• Mr. Tinku Bhattacharya, Teachers’ Council Secretary

• Mrs. Raka Biswas, Mrs. Mallika Sarkar, Assistant Teachers, and other faculty members, along with students of the school.

During the ceremony, Er. Kapil Baran Bhowmik highlighted that the solar-powered system of the toilet can be remotely monitored. He also assured the school authorities that NBIRT Arkaneer would provide maintenance support for the smart toilet for the next two years.

Both the students and school staff expressed immense happiness and gratitude for this initiative, with the new toilet greatly improving the school's sanitation facilities. The smart toilet is expected to not only enhance hygiene but also promote a sense of responsibility towards sustainable living and environmental conservation among the students.