gs1medium

With reference to bio-toilets used by the Indian Railways, consider the following statements:

  1. 1.The decomposition of human waste in the bio-toilets is initiated by a fungal inoculum.
  2. 2.Ammonia and water vapour are the only end products in this decomposition which are released into the atmosphere.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. A.1 only
  2. B.2 only
  3. C.Both 1 and 2
  4. D.Neither 1 nor 2
▶ Answer & Explanation

Correct answer: D. Neither 1 nor 2

Bio-toilets in Indian Railways utilize anaerobic bacteria, not fungi, to decompose human waste. This process breaks down waste into methane, carbon dioxide, and water. While water vapour is released, ammonia is not a primary end product in this context, and other gases like methane and carbon dioxide are also emitted.

Source: UPSC gs1 2015

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