DRDO Signs MOU with MAHA-METRO for implementation of Advanced Biodigester 

DRDO Signs MOU with MAHA-METRO for implementation of Advanced Biodigester 

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Sci & Tech, Environment

In news 

• Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (MAHA –METRO), a joint venture company of the GoI and Government of Maharashtra, are working together to conserve water and protect the environment by installing DRDO’s eco-friendly biodigester units in its facilities.

•  A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was inked recently between MAHA-METRO and DRDO. 

Key takeaways 

• Through MoU, DRDO will render technical support for the implementation of its advanced biodigester Mk-II technology for the treatment of human waste in the metro rail network.

• DRDO’s biodigester is an indigenous, green and cost-effective technology,

• A customized version of this MK-II Biodigester, suitable for treating human waste generated from houseboats in Dal Lake was also successfully demonstrated by the DRDO to J&K Administration. 

Important value additions 

• A biodigester system utilizes organic waste, particularly animal and human excreta, to produce fertilizer and biogas.
• It consists of an airtight, high-density polyethylene container within which excreta diluted in water flow continuously and are fermented by microorganisms present in the waste.
• The fermentation process is anaerobic, i.e., it takes place without oxygen.
• The bacteria responsible for decomposition are methanogenic (i.e., they produce methane known as biogas). 
• The processed manure is an organic, pathogen-free fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
• The products are primarily for self-consumption on farms.