Hi Joe,

Thank you for sharing this news.

Infact, the eToilets implemented in the Tirupati Municipal Corporation have been well accepted by the public, given the world class sanitation facilities the eToilets provide. Not only this, the eToilet installed in one of the locations in the Municipal Corporation limits are also enabled with disabled-friendly features for better convenience and ease of use.

The Municipal Corporation has led an example on how to provide better and hygienic rather state-of-the-art toilets promoting convenience and ease of users for the end users.

Regards,
Bincy

Dear Elisabeth,

Thank you for pointing this out.

The eToilets installed in Raichur were during year 2012 We were very glad to associate with Raichur authorities for providing the sanitation solution using eToilets. As pointed out by the commissioner, the user awareness was also very low and there were perceived apprehensions of the users getting trapped.

But I am glad to inform you that these revelations has helped us to view the eToilet from the user perspective and in subsequent models, we have eliminated every feature and functionality which keeps them away from using an eToilet. The electronics integration is for ensuring cleaning and maintenance of eToilet and the normal user do not have to use any electronic interface. The user can use the eToilet as any normal toilet.

Since then, we are now in 650 locations across India and we are happy to know that the users in cities and towns like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Patna, Ahmedabad (in over 14 states)are now increasingly using eToilets.

Our R&D team is in a continuous process of design and development of the eToilet enclosure, thanks to the support of BMGF since the past years. These valuable feedback of well wishers like you are welcome and we understand, we still have a long way to go in providing the best of sanitation facility to the common man in India. We believe a comprehensive approach to provide sanitation encompassing the challenges of user awareness, adoption of new sanitation technologies, skill development, conservation of resources, sustainability and maintenance of cleanliness and hygiene is the need of the hour in India.

Also shared below is the eToilet video link www.dropbox.com/s/s0dlt94vgdtm86x/E%20TO...TURE%20FILM.mp4?dl=0

And, to put the price of eToilets in USD, 1 lakh comes to around 1600 USD. The higher end models would be around 3-6 lakhs which would be around 4800-9700 USD.

Regards,
Bincy

There is also this more recent story in The Hindu:
www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana...aign=RSS_Syndication

These toilets, developed by a private company – Eram Scientific, will be set up at three arterial junctions in the city – two cabins each (for men and women) at Central Bus Station and near pilgrim amenities complex – Vishnu Nivasam i.e., opposite to Railway Parcel Office. The third one, comprising of a single cabin, will come up at Urban SP Office near NTR Circle.

Speaking to The Hindu, Municipal Engineer B. Chandrasekhar welcomed the introduction of automated toilets and explained about their functioning. The unit, which costs Rs.5.5 lakh, houses all the information about its usage, in local languages. It has exits and hooters to alert people outside in case of any emergency.

That's about 8,000 Euro and 9,000 USD Elisabeth

1 lakh is 100,000 - and 100,000 Indian rupees is about 1500 Euro or 1600 USD.

Dear Bincy,

The eToilets that you are implementing were actually quoted as an example for a failed toilet project here:

www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-nationa...s/article4764796.ece

Raichur city fails to wake up to e-toilets

The article says:

The e-toilets at three vital spots in the city — near the CMC, Ambedkar Circle and Teen Kandeel circle — were the first of their kind in the State. Nine months on, however, the toilets have hardly been used.

CMC Commissioner in charge V. Shashikala blamed lack of awareness among the people for it. “People don’t know how to use these technologically advanced toilets. They are afraid to use it; they fear being locked up inside the toilets,” she says.

Mind you, the article is from 2013 so a lot has probably changed since then. Interestingly, it was picked up in this article by the New York Times from last year which is where I saw it (and posted about it here ):
www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/after-....VKudQxuSMWx.twitter

After 10 years, few payoffs from Gates’ ‘Grand Challenges’

"When several Gates-funded, high-tech toilets were installed in the Indian city of Raichur last year, at a cost of about $8,000 each, residents refused to use them. "

It could be that the journalist writing the NYT article in December 2014 was stuck for examples so he picked on an isolated case from May 2013? But the question is: was it an isolated case or not?

What can you tell us about this (please be honest and self-critical )?

Oh and I noticed in your response above that you wrote:

The eToilet price ranges from 1 lakh onwards with the higher end models priced at around 3-6 lakhs

I know Indians love quoting prices in lakhs, but outside of India this is totally unknown. Could you please be so kind to convert it also in Euros for it (or USD if you prefer)? Thanks a lot.

Regards,
Elisabeth

Nice post , Do not depend on any authority to clean your area. Let’s pick up the broom and join Clean India Campaign today....

Hi,

Thank you for the interest shown in our product.

We have developed customized variants of eToilets which includes the general public model, civic model, women-friendly model and school model for gender specific use by the students. These modular, pre fabricated structures are made of steel (stainless and mild) and are integrated with user-friendly interfaces for enhanced cleanliness and hygiene. Below are the clarifications on the queries raised to give you better insights on eToilet.

(1) Is their any solution for used pads ( During Mensuration) in this e-toilet for the uneducated poor rural women of India ? It may create Choke in auto flushing system of e-Toilet.
To address the challenges related to safe disposal of sanitary napkins, we have provision for sanitary napkin vending machine and napkin incinerators that ensure safe disposal of used sanitary napkins. Since we have a system in place, issues related to choking will not be a challenge for eToilets.

2) How it could be promoted in every public places ? Here, I am talking about the price of different models.
We have our presence in over 13 States PAN India with 600+ installations till date.
The eToilet price ranges from 1 lakh onwards with the higher end models priced at around 3-6 lakhs. Our recently launched model, e-Lite 14 is solar powered and is incorporated with self-washing and cleaning mechanisms thus minimizing manual cleaning. e-Lite 14 eToilet model is suitable for schools and controlled environment usage such as corporates, hospitals, etc.

3) Do you have any idea on e-Urinals/ Bio Urinals ?
Currently, we do not have e-Urinals/Bio Urinals.

4) Any suggestion to start this type of project in Odisha?
We would be happy to extend our services in Odisha. It would be good if you could approach some companies who are looking forward to utilize CSR funds for sanitation projects in your region. NGOs could be another option.

Hi,
It is a Eco-friendly solution to sanitation issues in ULBs, Public places, Hospitals, Corporate Houses, schools, Tourist places . we are in dialogue with Eram solution to implement is all these places , I mentioned.

It would be great if you can arrange funding for my trust to start it in grey areas of Odisha Governmnt.

I have some queries:-(1) Is their any solution for used pads ( During Mensuration) in this e-toilet for the uneducated poor rural women of India ? It may create Choke in auto flushing system of e-Toilet.

2) How it could be promoted in every public places ? Here, I am talking about the price of different models.
3) Do you have any idea on e-Urinals/ Bio Urinals ?

4) Any suggestion to start this type of project in Odisha?


Regards,

This is a very good development considering the shortage of toilets in schools in rural area. Looking at the technology, its cost and general affordability I feel this is very good model for mainly tourism dept. All our places of tourism can have this toilet as it is using advance technology and will go well with all foreign tourists. Since our Govt has given top priority to tourism industry you may do tie up with tourism dept and install these toilets at all major tourist attractions.

Even though it it does not require any maintenance I feel one attendant will be required who will see that there is no vandalism.

As far as school toilets are concerned I feel the cost will be rather prohibitive and many schools will not be able to afford it. For them some other model will have to be introduced.

I am an Architect and social entrepreneur by profession and retired as Principal of college of Architecture, Pune in 2008 and having an NGO mainly working in Health and Sanitation sector in Maharashtra.

-- Prof.Shrikant Bhate. Architect and Social Entrepreneur. D-9, Durvankur Society I,Panchavati. Pashan. Pune 411008. R:020-2589 9527 Mobile:91-09890440648

Eram Scientific unveils World’s cheapest solar powered eToilet for Schools

Eram Scientific, the manufacturers of India’s first eToilet, unveils World’s cheapest unmanned, self-cleaning eToilet, with inbuilt solar panel and metallic platform for schools. The model called e-Lite14 eToilet for schools has automated self-cleaning and washing mechanisms and automatic floor wash system, automatic ceiling light, in-built sensors to conserve electricity and water and an overhead water tank. The base of eToilet is made of stainless steel, with specially designed closet and body built of Mild Steel for durability and safety. Ample natural lighting and ventilation are provided to the eToilet and it is solar powered.

Highlights
• School eToilet called eLite14 is built of stainless steel base and mild steel super structure and occupies 25 sq.ft space.

• Inbuilt solar panel eliminates need for electricity connection &
Metal platform avoids civil construction

• Ex-factory price at Rs.99999/- inclusive of Insurance Charges and one year warranty. Commissioning cost at actuals. Tax exemptions are awaited.

• Automatic flush, before and after use, automatic floor wash, sensor controlled water usage eliminates the need for manual cleaner in schools.

The ex-factory price is Rs.99999/- inclusive of Insurance Coverage and 1 year warranty. Implementation costs will be at actuals and request for Excise Duty and Tax exemption were already submitted to Government of India.

“This is our contribution to the Nation and comes as a response to ‘Clean India Campaign’ announced by Government of India and I am immensely happy to announce its launch just a day before the birthday of the Father of our Nation. It perfectly matches with the ‘Make in India’ campaign as well.” says Dr. Siddeek Ahmed, Chairman of Eram Group.

“The present problems in sanitation at schools is known to be not because of the dearth of Toilets. There are schools with more toilets built than the number of students in last 5-6 years, but the lack of maintenance and requirement for manual cleaning made them dysfunctional. We are out to address that gap and that is why we are now launching this comprehensive solution for schools” Anvar Sadath K., Chief Executive Officer of Eram Scientific said. “We have been closely watching the developments in this sector since four years and carried out research on various models in brick and mortar, plastic and FRP etc. But to ensure safety, durability, self-cleaning and unmanned operations, we identified the steel structure.” Mr Sadath added.

Eram Scientific has deployed over 600 eToilets in India, in 11 states, out of which 200+ are in schools. Eram has bagged 35 awards for this innovative product and is a grantee of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) to develop sustainable sanitation ecosystems as part of RTTC (Re-inventing The Toilet Challenge) programme.

Eram is collaborating with University of South Florida for developing cost effective self- sustained eToilets (which produce Nutrients, Energy and Water from waste), which will commence under the aegis of BIRAC, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India and BMGF.

The slow pace of implementation and long turnaround cycles in government systems, especially with respect to payment releases, were hindering the fast paced vision to reach out to the masses. Hence, this exclusive model is aimed at buyers in the private sectors, NGOs, CSR, Foundations also.

eLite14 can be ordered online through our website www.eramscientific.com and will be supplied on a first-come first-serve basis. eLite14 model is customised for schools and for public places, the existing eToilet variants in Stainless Steel, Mild Steel and Civic model would be deployed.

The Pictures of new Elite14 EToilet along with inside view are attached. FAQ can be accessed @ www.eramscientific.com/eLiteFAQ.pdf

Self-Sustainable Sanitation Model through eShops “India’s First Technology-Enabled Shops

Eram Scientific Solutions (ESS) has launched “eShop, India’s First Technology-Enabled shop in Kozhikode, the third largest city in Kerala earlier this month. eShop, the first-of-its-kind self-sustainable entrepreneur model is a developmental initiative taken towards empowering the BoP segment of the society.

Having established a network of more than 500 eToilets spanning across 10 major States PAN India, this unique entrepreneurial eShop Model will promote sustainable community sanitation technologies through eToilets and simultaneously open up a new livelihood source for communities through eShop. The eToilet-eShop Model will ensure revenue generation and sustainability ensuring entrepreneurship promotion initiative across India. The eShops are implemented in close proximity with the existing eToilet units to promote responsible sanitation hygiene practices amongst the common man.

The eShop would provide entrepreneurs with multiple sources of income through sale of goods, income generated through user charges and advertisement revenue from eToilet. This would function as a value-added service along with the eToilet and would facilitate employment as well as income generation for the entrepreneur. Moreover, it would result in improving the maintenance mechanism of eToilet since the entrepreneur of the eShop would also be responsible for ensuring proper maintenance and cleaning of the eToilet and its surroundings.

Considering the huge unemployment rates in India, this unique intervention could trigger mass employment opportunities for small-time entrepreneurs especially women, at large and these entrepreneurs can be engaged to be the Sanitation Champions of the areas.

ESS will be implementing 16 such new-age micro retailing eShop outlets in association with the Kudumbasree Community Development Society under the Kozhikode Corporation in other prominent locations within the Kozhikode Corporation limits. eShops has been opened at five prominent spots in the region as part of the first phase.

ESS is collaborating with iconic brands such as Britannia, Idea, Café Coffee Day, Parle to inspire a nationwide movement taken towards transforming the lives of the BoP segment of the society, especially the women populace with the launch of eShop, a stand-alone initiative dedicated to helping promote livelihood opportunities for the marginal sections of the society.

The potential of this initiative at the next phase is to integrate the proven technologies of solid waste treatment, waste water treatment systems to develop self-sustained urban communities. The recycling potential of energy, water and nutrients from waste treatment can support such communities to meet their utility requirements. Developing micro-entrepreneurship in sanitation, waste treatment and similar sectors would unveil multiple livelihood options for the urban poor. Moreover, the eToilet-eShop locations will be transformed to wi-fi Hotspots to enhance convenience and mobility for the end users.

If you are interested in the eToilet in India, you will enjoy watching these two spontaneous videos which we did last week when we (Arno Rosemarin and I) met Bincy at the fair in Delhi:

Interview with Bincy (5 minutes):



Technical tour of their 3 exhibits (9 minutes):



Points that I found relevant:

1. The company Eram Scientific is registered as a for-profit company but it is a Social Enterprise arm of Eram Group, a large Indian company. Eram Scientific gets an income from the customers of the eToilet to cover part of the costs, but it is not yet making a profit.
2. The toilets are rather expensive; Kerala is a state in India which is relatively wealthy (Kerala is the state where they are installed).
3. They were already implementing this before they got the additional money from the BMGF. With the additional money they were able to do additional research on the self-cleaning properties.
4. The self-cleaning properties are very important to them, at the expense of using quite a bit of water, e.g. for automated floor cleaning.
5. The treatment side of the wastewater generated from the toilets was so far not in focus; conventional technologies were used, mainly connection to a sewer. Now with this new research grant they will connect it to the anerobic membrane bioreactor developed by Daniel Yeh's group (University of South Florida, see forum.susana.org/forum/categories/98-res...-now-in-kerala-india). This is also not that cheap and not that simple, but the field trials that they are carrying out this year will reveal more.

Bincy, Daniel and Robert, please correct me if I have said anything wrong about your project. Thanks.

Regards,
Elisabeth


P.S.
All the videos from the other grantees are available here in this Youtube Playlist (we haven't quite finished editing all the titles etc. but we are almost there. That's 35 video clips of about 16 grants + 2 others, 3 hours length in total):
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0gMdVBup...H-6zco4XpTjxKcsB7UDW