Its mobility allows it to be mounted on various vehicles, including trucks, tractors, small pickups, and even trailers, offering flexibility for efficient transportation.
A team from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela developed a low-cost, zero-energy cooling chamber for transporting tomatoes. It is designed for the efficient storage and transportation of tomato. The cooling chamber, which was developed at a cost of Rs 1.4 lakh, can hold 750-1,000 kg of produce at temperatures ranging from 16 to 18 degrees Celsius.
Developed at a cost of Rs 1.4 lakh, the chamber can hold up to 750–1,000 kg of produce and is ideal for preserving perishable goods. Its mobility allows it to be mounted on various vehicles, including trucks, tractors, small pickups, and even trailers, offering flexibility for efficient transportation.
One of the special features of this cooling chember is its energy efficiency, as it doesn’t require any external power supply. By utilising wet pads to facilitate evaporative cooling, the chamber naturally reduces temperature and maintains the necessary humidity levels for fresh produce.
The unit is also available in portable versions, catering to small-scale users like vegetable sellers and distributors. Professor Madhuresh Dwivedi, a member of the project, highlighted its potential to revolutionise the transportation of perishables while providing an eco-friendly solution.
The team, which included several professors, researchers, and PhD scholars, presented their innovation at the “Tomato Grand Challenge” during the National Consumer Day event in New Delhi on December 24. Their work is expected to significantly benefit farmers and traders, ensuring better storage and reduced wastage of agricultural produce.
The Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, in collaboration with Innovation Cell, Ministry of Education had initiated a hackathon titled Tomato Grand Challenge (TGC) by inviting innovative ideas at various levels of the tomato value chain.
