A Class 9 student from Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district, James Donald Kharkongor, has been recognized with the jury award at this year’s North East Science Fair & Innovation Festival. The accolade was awarded for his ingenious system designed to detect gas leaks and initiate preventive measures to mitigate potential accidents.
James, who studies at Mawngap District Christian Multipurpose HS School, received accolades at the regional event organized by the National Science Centre, Guwahati, part of the National Council of Science Museums. His invention, the Smart LPG Safety and Hazard Prevention System, employs advanced sensors to continuously monitor air quality. It triggers an alarm and activates an exhaust fan if gas levels exceed safety norms, thereby averting fire risks.
Equipped with IoT-based alerts, the system also includes an automatic solenoid valve to stop the gas supply upon detecting a leak. The project was recognized for its practical relevance, technical integration, and societal impact potential, with mentoring support from the Shillong Science Centre’s Innovation Hub.
(With inputs from agencies.)