The Silent Killer Lurking In India

Amid the deadly threat of Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning exacerbated by North India's winters, Archit Garg, a Grade 12 student from The International School Bangalore, recognized the need for an affordable CO detection system. Identifying the reliance of approximately 220 million people on traditional coal and coke heating methods, Garg developed an economical CO detector prototype. He presented its potential for mass production to multiple local governments, emphasizing its feasibility for deployment across millions of households. Archit urges homeowners to strategically place detectors and follow preventive measures to safeguard against CO's risks.

Winters in North India conjure images of snow-clad landscapes and festive celebrations. Yet, beneath this idyllic image lies a silent and lethal danger: Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. This stealthy menace has manifested gravely in regions where temperatures plummet, posing a significant threat to innumerable lives.

Delving into the figures underscores the magnitude of this crisis:

- In 2021, unintentional CO poisoning was accountable for an alarming 289,000 deaths worldwide​^1​.

- The global mortality rate from unintentional CO poisoning in that year stood at 0.366 per 100,000 individuals, with a total of 28,900 deaths logged​^2​.

- An estimated 137 cases per million globally fall victim to CO poisoning, with the death rate striking at 4.6 per million​^3​.

With a keen focus on North India, this threat magnifies. The chilling climate has compelled approximately 220 million people, subsisting on less than $0.5 a day, to rely on age-old coal and coke heating methods. These archaic practices, while warming, become potent sources of CO emissions.

Recognizing this peril, Archit Garg, an astute Grade 12 student from the International School Bangalore, undertook a research-intensive initiative. He discerned an acute need for an economical CO detection system tailored to North India's specific requirements. The exorbitant prices of detectors such as https://t.ly/Eybf accentuated the urgency of his mission.

Propelled by his findings, Archit designed a cost-effective prototype costing only $3. Comparable devices in the market cost from around $32 to $75, though they support some extraneous features. Streamlined yet efficient, this device prioritizes crucial detection capabilities. Archit's website offers an intricate breakdown of this innovation journey.

But his aspirations soared beyond mere innovation. With a prototype in hand, Archit engaged multiple local governments. His advocacy spotlighted the potential for mass-manufacturing this detector domestically, preserving its affordability. The feedback was overwhelmingly favorable, with many local governments seeing its promise for deployment across 40 million households in India.

For homeowners aiming to safeguard their households from CO's clutches, optimal detector placement is paramount. Archit advocates for their installation within sleeping zones and adjacent to primary fuel-burning devices. Additionally, regular appliance assessments, adept ventilation, and eschewing dated heating methods can significantly curtail CO hazards.

Sharing his vision, Archit Garg stated, “It's not just about a device; it's about safeguarding lives. My focus is on persistently crafting cost-effective, impactful solutions to pressing challenges. We've embarked on this journey, and there's much more to come.”

To explore Archit’s innovative approach and his CO detector prototype, visit: www.senseco.tech

About Archit Garg:

Archit Garg, a senior at The International School Bangalore, embodies innovation and a drive to create impactful change. His prototype for an affordable Carbon Monoxide detector showcases his commitment to addressing real-world problems through technology and awareness

Contact

Archit Garg

garchit@tisb.ac.in