NMMC’s innovative waste-to-sustainable toilets transform sanitation norms
- Newsband
- 26 Dec, 2023
In a move towards sustainable sanitation practices, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) unveiled two visionary toilets at Koparkhairane, Sector 14, showcasing an ingenious concept of converting waste into functional and aesthetically appealing facilities.
Commissioned by Municipal Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar, these avant-garde toilets highlight the city's commitment to cleanliness, environmental consciousness, and inventive waste management strategies. The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of key officials, including Additional Commissioner Dr. Sujata Dhole, Deputy Commissioner of Solid Waste Management Department Babasaheb Rajle, and other dignitaries, reflecting the collective effort and support for this innovative endeavour.
Distinguished by their sustainable design, the toilets at Koparkhairane have utilized 426 sq.m. of recycled plastic sheeting and repurposed 5.30 metric tons of single-use plastic. Notably, over 11,700 plastic bottles were ingeniously repurposed for embellishing the toilet, and an impressive 35,200 bottle caps were artistically integrated within the facility.
The creative construction incorporated an 85-key computer board for embellishment and repurposed 284 kg of scrap metal to fashion an appealing vehicle model stationed in front of the toilet. Additionally, the surrounding area boasts a picturesque fountain sustained by treated sewage water, exemplifying the innovative use of waste materials and embodying the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle (3R).
Spanning across 75 sq.m., the toilet facilities cater comprehensively to the needs of both men and women, featuring 4 toilets and 1 bathroom for men, and 3 toilets, 1 bathroom, 1 child and women toilet. The women's section is equipped with essential amenities such as a baby care facility, sanitary pad vending machine, incinerator, and hand dryer. Furthermore, provisions have been made for the differently-abled with a dedicated toilet.
Remarkably, a similar aspirational toilet has been established near Dharan Lake in Sector 19, Koparkhairane, reaffirming the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation's innovative prowess in creating sustainable designs from waste materials, marking a significant leap towards eco-friendly urban infrastructure.
“These pioneering initiatives not only exemplify a futuristic approach to waste management but also serve as a beacon for other municipal corporations, setting a commendable precedent for integrating sustainability into essential infrastructure, ultimately fostering cleaner and greener urban landscapes”, said Narvekar.