India | October 13, 2026: IntrCity SmartBus, a technology-enabled intercity mobility platform, estimates that its bio-washroom technology can save around 3 crore litres of water annually across its bus network. The company offers onboard washrooms across more than 95% of its buses and serves nearly 1 crore passengers every year.

Bio-washrooms use approximately 2 litres of water per flush, compared with around 4–5 litres in conventional toilets. Based on an estimated average of one washroom use per passenger per journey, IntrCity SmartBus calculates a saving of approximately 3 litres per passenger, amounting to an estimated 3 crore litres annually.

The initiative also addresses operational challenges associated with maintaining onboard washrooms on long-distance routes, including cleanliness, odour, fresh-water consumption and waste disposal. Lower water usage can reduce the frequency of water replenishment, while the bio-washroom system supports waste management.

Manish Rathi, Co-founder & CEO of IntrCity SmartBus, said, “As we continue to scale our intercity network, we are looking at the different aspects that contribute to a more consistent passenger experience. Onboard washrooms are an important requirement for long-distance journeys, and our focus has been to make this facility more reliable while addressing the operational challenges that come with maintaining it across routes. The use of bio-washrooms allows us to reduce water consumption while improving the overall functionality of the facility. At our scale, these interventions can create a meaningful impact across both passenger experience and resource efficiency.”

Onboard washrooms provide passengers with access to facilities during long-distance and overnight journeys, potentially reducing dependence on roadside stops. The availability of these facilities can also offer added convenience to women, senior citizens and families travelling with children, particularly on routes where roadside washroom access and hygiene may vary.

IntrCity SmartBus said the bio-washroom initiative forms part of its broader efforts to improve passenger amenities, safety, boarding infrastructure and operational processes. The company is focusing on technology and infrastructure upgrades to improve the convenience and reliability of intercity travel.