Innovative School Toilet Solution in Mahabubabad District

The Zilla Parishad High School in Rajole, Mahabubabad district, faced a significant challenge concerning the lack of toilet facilities for boys, despite being established in 1947. Although the school accommodates about 200 students, including 80 girls with toilet access, boys had to relieve themselves outdoors until recently.

Problem Identification

• A boy returning in tears after being reprimanded for urinating on private land highlighted the urgent need for a solution.

Low-Cost Innovative Solution

• Physical director Pilli Kashinath spearheaded the construction of makeshift urinals using repurposed five-litre plastic oil cans.
• With a budget of ₹2,000, a urinal area was created with 10 repurposed cans mounted at child-friendly heights.
• The cans were modified with horizontal and vertical cuts, spout connections to discharge pipes, and a common flush system using a hose and valve.

Community and Student Involvement

• Class 8 students Karthik, Lokesh, and Komaram Puli, along with other students and teachers, contributed to the project.
• Materials such as asbestos roof sheets, sand, and stones were repurposed from the school, while essential items like pipe joints and cement were purchased.

Implementation and Reception

• The facility was inaugurated by District Educational Officer A. Ravinder Reddy in March and received local media coverage.
• The school plans to add roofing sheets to enable use during rain.

Reflection and Challenges

• Headmaster A. Ravi Kumar emphasized self-solution over waiting for government intervention.
• Official reports indicate new toilets were sanctioned, but funds were reportedly unavailable for execution.