With the city already facing a water crisis, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is finding innovative ways to curb wastage of natural resources. In a first-of-its-kind for the city, 11 urinals will be set up at the Gateway of India, by the end of the month, which will not require flushing of water. Called waterless urinals, the system can save up to 10,000 litres of water per day.

“There is a need to stop unnecessary wastage of water. In public toilets a large amount of water is wasted after every use. We are therefore keen on implementing this unique technology which will save water,” said Additional Municipal Commissioner RA Rajeev.

The American technology will initially be used at the toilet blocks being constructed at the Gateway of India. The BMC will implement it across the city if it is successful. “There is a 150 mm slab of chemicals which is put up below the urinal pot. The user will not have to flush water. The system is hygienic and there will be no stench,” said A Dhamne, Assistant Municipal Commissioner, A ward.

The waterless urinal cartridge contains a blue Liquid Chemical Seal that acts as a drain trap with specific gravity lighter than water. It therefore helps in controlling the smell. The cartridge, priced at Rs 2,000 will only require maintenance by way of cleaning of the fixture and change of the cartridge approximately after 10,000 uses (nearly three months).

There will be no additional charges for users and the rates will be same as other public toilets, officials said. “If this pilot project is successful all the other public toilet blocks in the city will be retrofitted with this technology,” said Rajeev.