App that helps travellers locate nearby toilets launched in Kerala

Local Self Government Minister MB Rajesh said the government plans to make extensive use of technology in waste management.

Speaking after launching the ‘KLOO’ mobile app, which helps travelers locate the nearest safe and well-maintained public toilet, he said the government had introduced the ‘Harithamithram 2.0’ app for doorstep collection of waste. This includes online payment facilities, improved monitoring of waste collection at the doorstep, Malayalam language support and integration with the K-SMART system.

The ‘Take a Break’ project was launched through local bodies to address the lack of adequate public toilets across the state, especially for female travellers. “A total of 1,832 toilets have been made ready, new ones will be added soon. In addition, 5 new facilities with the capacity to process all sanitary waste produced in the state will become operational in the coming months,” he said.

The KLOO app allows users to identify the most suitable toilets in public facilities and private hotels. This was done in collaboration with local bodies and the Kerala Hotel and Restaurant Association. The app was developed by Frugal Scientific Private Ltd for Suchitwa Mission.

Mr. Rajesh said that the State had overcome the toughest phase in waste processing and sanitation. After the Brahmapuram issue was resolved, Haritha Karma Sena’s non-biodegradable waste collection rate increased from 37% to 95%. With the regulation changes, it became mandatory to collect waste and collect user fees. The number of mini material collection facilities (MCF) increased from 7,000 to 21,000. The minister said that the process of setting up compressed biogas (CBG) plants at seven centers across the state is ongoing.