Indian Railways to use IoT-based technology to eliminate smelly toilets

The Railways Board has reportedly discussed testing Internet of Things (IoT)-based technology that will be utilised to detect offensive odours using detectors. The report also mentions that Viliso Technologies, a startup based in Mumbai, has been chosen for the project. For the time being, it is a test project that will be used in specific coaches.

According to Viliso Technologies’ website, the startup has a few IoT-based products that help in better sanitation. For instance, there’s Gandhvedh, an IoT-based electronic device that monitors Odour, Total Volatile Organic Compound (TVOC), Temperature and Humidity. The device is fitted in the toilet where the odour monitoring is required, notes the product description on the official website. “The device then sends the odour data to mobile app & web app which are used by the caretaker or monitoring authority responsible for sanitation of the toilet,” says the company about the product.

There are smart systems that use sensors to identify foul smells that reek up the toilets. The sensors are capable of picking up volatile compounds and molecules in the air. The data is then transmitted to a central hub. The hub analyses the information and can trigger automated responses. For example, it might alert sanitation crews about foul smells and notify them that cleaning is required. . This real-time monitoring allows for quicker intervention and improved odour control. Though it’s not clear which product is Railways planning to use in trains and stations’ toilets.