Located in the hilly forest area of Tamil Nadu’s Jawadhu Hills, a tribal village school in Nellivasal had long been plagued by inadequate sanitation facilities.

The lack of proper toilets not only posed health risks but also led to unhygienic practices such as open defecation, creating discomfort and stench around the campus premises.

A group of individuals, including architect-turned-documentary filmmaker Vishnupriya, architect Barnala Michael, and a team of dedicated friends, united to address this pressing issue.

The team adopted a unique approach, employing cost-effective construction methods and techniques to overcome financial constraints.

Utilising the ferrocement construction technique, they designed and built three toilets and an open bath area at a reduced cost of Rs 2.5 lakh, demonstrating a 30 percent saving compared to conventional methods.

With a focus on expedited construction, the project was efficiently completed within a month, showcasing the power of effective planning and resource optimisation.

One of the key highlights of the eco-toilet initiative was the incorporation of a leech pit system for waste management, which transformed human waste into natural manure for the school’s garden.

By infusing vibrant colours and unique shapes into the toilet structures, they successfully attracted students, thereby fostering a positive shift in behaviour from open defecation to using enclosed spaces.

The impact of the eco-toilet project was profound, with noticeable improvements in cleanliness and overall well-being observed within the school community. Currently, about 80 rural students are using these toilets.

“With our example, we hope to inspire architects, engineers, school teachers, and government officials to provide dignity to our students, protect the environment, and embrace sustainability,” says Michael.