The Defence Research and Development Organisation recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Maha Metro. Maha Metro is Maharashtra metro rail Corporation. It is a joint venture company of the Government of India and Government of Maharashtra.

What are the key features of the agreement?

The agreement will render technical support to implement the advanced biodigester Mk II technology to treat human waste in Metro Rail Network.

What is the current status of bio digester in Indian Railways?

The Indian Railways has already installed more than 2.4 Lakh biodigester in its passenger coaches.

How will Bio digester help to control Dal Lake pollution?

DRDO recently demonstrated a customised version of bio digester to treat human waste generated from the houseboats in the Dal lake. Around hundred units of biodigester are to be procured for civil Habitat around the lake to minimise water pollution. This project is being monitored by a committee of experts constituted by the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir.

Why was the Biodigester technology developed?

The biodigester technology was basically developed by DRDO for the Indian armed forces in high altitude Himalayan regions.

What is biodigester technology?

The biodigester technology degrades and converts human waste into usable water and gases. The generated gas is used for cooking and water for irrigation purposes. This is done in an eco-friendly manner.

What is the working of bio digester technology?

The biodigester technology involves bacteria that feed upon fecal matter. The fecal matter is dumped into a tank along with the bio digesting bacteria. The bacteria through anaerobic process will degrade the fecal matter. During the process water and methane gas are released.

What is an anaerobic process?

It is the process that occurs in the absence of free or combined oxygen.