Dr Prasenjit, a professor in Botany from Jharkhand has developed a method to make organic fertilisers from water hyacinth. Kumar Kalidas Memorial College (KKM), Pakur district, claimed that the method would make chemical free fertilisers more affordable and conserve the environment because the presence of water Hyacinth lowers the oxygen level in the water.
What is Water Hyacinth and How Does It Work?
The water hyacinth is one of the most massive aquatic weeds in the world. It is an invasive species, as one pair could multiply up to 48,000 times per season. It directly affects global warming and inhibits fishing activity by producing methane. Methanation is the conversion of gases like carbon monoxide and CO2 to methane via hydrogenation.
The professor stated that the best way to control water hyacinths was to physically handle it, which requires a huge workforce, but it also gets decomposed.
He stated, “My research is focused upon controlling it through utilisation, where it is converted to raw material and used for organic compost.” The New Indian Express.
How does it work?
Dr Prasenjit outlined the process. He explained that the hydrolyte must be extracted from a body of water. After this, it must be cut into small pieces and placed in a pit measuring 5 x 5 inches. In the pit, cow dung, superphosphate, and urea are added.
Professor said that the bamboo poles can be used to create two vertical holes. The pit is then covered with mid for about 70 days. The pit is covered with mid for about 70 days. Approximately 2-3 tonnes of organic fertilizer are then produced. This fertilizer is significantly less expensive than the chemical-free fertilisers on the market.
Development & Benefit Of Technique
The technique was invented by Dr Prasenjit while he was completing a Doctorate in Science under the guidance of Science Dean (retired), Dr Jyoti Kumar of Ranchi University. He has since applied for its patent.
Professor said that the research was started in 2014 and completed in 2017. The technique would benefit crops and improve soil fertility.
Dr. Kumar stated, “While doing DSc Dr Prasenjit discovered that water hyacinth could pose a serious threat to the environment in coming days because it grows very quickly.” According to the publication, it was decided that a solution would be found to control it.
He said that the product was ready for trial after chemical analysis at Ranchi’s Institute of Forest Productivity.
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