Rlys install vending machines for city trio’s eco-friendly spittoons

Nagpur: With Covid-19 pandemic at its peak in the country, an innovative technology developed by three city youngsters is solving the ‘great Indian spitting problem’ where it is needed the most — railway stations.
In April 2018, TOI had reported about the first-of-its-kind mobile spittoon ‘Ezy Spit’ developed by engineer trio Prateek Malhotra, Ritu Malhotra and Pratik Harde. The spittoon absorbs multiple spits and converts it into biodegradable waste.
The invention aims at curbing diseases caused due to spitting. Now, the youngsters have collaborated with the Indian Railways to install over 100 EzySpit spittoon vending machines at major railway stations across the country.
The first such vending machine has been installed at Nagpur railway station. “The automated vending machine provides a unique solution to public spitting problem, it shall provide railway commuters freedom to carry the EzySpit containers, pouches and vomit bags,” said Ritu.
The pouches and glasses in the vending machine cost around Rs10 to 20. “This unique solution is being implemented for the first time in any railway station. A biggest reason for the spread of Covid-19 virus is human-to-human spread of the coronavirus, happening through either close contact with an infected person or by inhaling droplets. These products will help control the virus spread through human saliva,” said Malhotra.
EzySpit spittoon has macromolecule pulp technology and is equipped with a material which freezes the bacteria and virus present in saliva, making it safe to dispose after usage. “The first vending machine installed at Nagpur railway station is getting a great response. Even though footfall is less due to the ongoing pandemic, around 100 pouches and glasses are being sold per day. Apart from this, 30-35 vomit bags are being used,” said Malhotra.
The trio came together in 2017 and set up a start-up which produced innovations like digital aquarium and digital pots that can automatically provide water to plants. Today, they are running a company having showrooms in several states.