Agartala, September 09, 2025: Sekerkote Higher Secondary School is set to become the second institution in Tripura to house a smart toilet, marking another step forward in sustainable sanitation for schools.

The state’s first smart toilet was inaugurated at Chhankhola High School. Backed by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, the project is now expanding with Sekerkote School as the next beneficiary.

The facility is being developed by the NB Institute for Rural Technology (NBIART), popularly known as Arkaneer, in technical collaboration with IIEST Shibpur B College. Construction is nearing completion, and the toilet is expected to be opened for students soon.

Highlighting the project’s features, Dr. Richik Ghosh Thakur, Senior Officer at NBIART’s Kolkata Centre, said the toilet is designed with water-efficient systems powered by solar energy. A solar submersible pump will ensure water supply, while panels will generate electricity for lighting, fans, and the water system. Excess water will be reused for midday meals and other school purposes.

The facility will have separate units for boys and girls, equipped with solar-powered lighting and fans. Smart sensors will automatically control lights and fans, while remote monitoring will allow timely maintenance.

The initiative is being spearheaded by Arkaneer President Professor Dr. Shantipada Gan Chaudhuri, with implementation overseen by Professor Kanika Das Bhattacharya of IIEST Shibpur B College. Vice President of Arkaneer, Kapil Baran Ghosh, noted that ferrocement technology was being used, which reduces the need for steel and increases earthquake resistance.

School headmaster Santosh Kumar Roy Choudhury thanked Arkaneer for introducing the eco-friendly facility, while Project Officer Anup Dey confirmed that the government-backed initiative aims to cover more schools across the state.