With reference to bio-toilets used by the Indian Railways, consider the following statements:
1. The decomposition of human waste in the bio-toilets is initiated by a fungal inoculum.
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?
A
1 only
B
2 only
C
Both 1 and 2
D
Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: Option D
Explanation
1. Statement 1 is incorrect. The decomposition of human waste in the bio-toilets used by Indian Railways is primarily carried out by anaerobic bacterial consortia, often sourced from DRDO technology. While fungi may be present, the process is initiated and driven mainly by bacteria, not a specific fungal inoculum.
2. Statement 2 is incorrect. The anaerobic decomposition of human waste results in the production of biogas (which is primarily methane and carbon dioxide) and treated effluent (largely water) along with sludge. Ammonia and water vapour are not the *only* end products; methane and carbon dioxide are significant gaseous products.
3. Therefore, neither statement 1 nor statement 2 is correct.