Rotary Club of Gangtok installs world’s highest bio-toilet at Kupup

<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif"><b>GANGTOK, : </b>The Rotary Club of Gangtok on Sunday marked a historic milestone by inaugurating the world’s highest bio-toilet facility installed by any Rotary Club anywhere in the world, at Old Baba Mandir, Kupup, East Sikkim, situated at an altitude of over 4,110 metres above sea level. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">This pioneering initiative is not only a matter of pride for Rotary in India but also a global benchmark in sustainable sanitation and environmental stewardship, a press release informs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">The inauguration ceremony was graced by Brig Jha, Tashi Wangyal, IGP (Law and Order), Sikkim Police, and Naresh Agarwal, president (2025–2026), Rotary Club of Gangtok, who jointly inaugurated the bio-toilet block for public use. Distinguished dignitaries, members of the armed forces, local community representatives, Rotarians, and visitors had gathered to witness this landmark achievement.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Yogesh Verma (Past District Governor) of Rotary Club of Gangtok emphasized the significance of the project.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">“This bio-toilet stands as a testament to Rotary’s commitment towards sustainable development, public health, and environmental conservation. To achieve this at such a high altitude, in difficult terrain and challenging climatic conditions, reflects the dedication and perseverance of our team specially Rtn. Aswin Oberoi &amp; Rtn. Gurpreet S. Dhunna. This project will benefit thousands of soldiers, pilgrims, and tourists who visit this revered site every year,” said Dr. Verma.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">According to Rotary Club of Gangtok, this installation has officially become the highest bio-toilet ever set up by any Rotary Club in the world, symbolizing Rotary’s ability to break new frontiers in service.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">The Old Baba Mandir, dedicated to the revered soldier Saint Baba Harbhajan Singh, attracts both pilgrims and tourists throughout the year. It is also an important post for the Indian Army. The bio-toilet will directly support soldiers and civilians in maintaining hygiene in this remote location, said the Rotary Club of Gangtok.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">Unlike conventional toilets, the bio-toilet system ensures waste decomposition through bacterial processes, preventing water contamination and preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">By addressing sanitation concerns at a popular tourist destination, this project will enhance visitor experience while safeguarding public health, said the club.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">The project was the culmination of years of planning, coordination, and dedication. Rotary Club of Gangtok worked tirelessly to overcome logistical challenges, including transporting materials to high altitudes, adapting the design to withstand extreme temperatures, and liaising with the Indian Army and local administration for smooth execution.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">At the conclusion of the ceremony, the project was formally handed over to the Indian Army posted at the Old Baba Mandir, ensuring its proper use and long-term maintenance.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">Special acknowledgment was given to Rtn. Aswin Oberoi &amp; Rtn. Gurpreet S. Dhunna (Rotary Club of Gangtok) and Rtn. Dr. Arijit Banerjee (Ramaesis Realty Pvt. Ltd, Kolkata) whose relentless efforts made the project a reality.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">The Rotary Club of Gangtok has consistently worked towards impactful community service projects in Sikkim, ranging from healthcare and education to environment-friendly initiatives. This project reinforces Rotary’s vision of creating sustainable solutions that improve lives while protecting nature.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family:&quot;Bookman Old Style&quot;,serif">The club announced that similar eco-friendly sanitation facilities will be explored at other high-altitude locations to further promote hygiene and responsible tourism in the Himalayan region.<o:p></o:p></span></p>

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