Renowned technocrat and ‘Metro Man of India’ E Sreedharan has once again proven his commitment to sustainability by opting for a bio-digester system at his residence in Ponnani, replacing the conventional septic tank.
The Bio-Digester, developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is transforming waste management in Kerala, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to septic tanks.
Sreedharan has always been a proponent of efficient and sustainable technologies, and he was instrumental in introducing Bio-Digesters in houseboats on Dal Lake in Srinagar when he was the chairman of a committee to restore the Dal Lake ecosystem following the failure of conventional waste management systems.
Currently, Samudra Planet manufactures and installs Bio-Digesters in Kerala under a technology transfer license from DRDO. The bio-digester technology employs anaerobic bacteria to decompose human waste, converting it into pathogen-free, odourless water that can be safely discharged or recycled. Unlike traditional septic systems, Bio-Digesters do not pollute groundwater, require zero maintenance, and are built to last over 25 years. Their compact design and affordability make them an ideal choice for both urban and rural households.
Sreedharan said, “I never had to think twice about installing a Bio-Digester at my home. Bio-Digesters have proven their capability in protecting Dal Lake from faecal discharge and in Kochi metro stations. Sustainability is a shared responsibility, and Bio-Digesters exemplify how innovative technologies can address environmental challenges while improving quality of life.”
Samudra Planet Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Jeevan Sudhakaran said that with the rise in urbanisation across Kerala, waste management, particularly septic waste disposal, has become a major challenge. “Bio-digesters are the only viable solution aimed at improving sanitation infrastructure and protecting our groundwater sources from pathogens, mainly coliform bacteria,” he said adding “When a luminary like E Sreedharan chooses a bio-digester, it sets a powerful example,” he added.
