THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Suction-cum-jetting machine vehicles have arrived in the capital city to help clean sewage canals and prevent waterlogging. The operation is set to begin this month. A similar machine had earlier been successfully tested in Kochi, which faced severe waterlogging issues, and proved effective in addressing the problem. Following this success, the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation also procured the machine. With the arrival of the suction-cum-jetting machine, it is hoped that drains can now be cleaned mechanically, helping to reduce waterlogging in the city.
Innovative robotic system
The vehicle is equipped with a robot named Bandicoot Mini, which controls the cleaning operations. The robot is named Bandicoot because it can reach up to 30 meters deep underground. It is spider-like in shape with four limbs and can be operated remotely from outside the manhole using cameras.
It takes about 15 to 45 minutes to clean drains and manholes. Solid waste is scooped out and transferred into a sensor-assisted bucket system that can lift up to 10–20 kilograms. The robot can also be deployed in areas inaccessible to the vehicle.
Key features of the robotic operation
Initial deployment
Phase One: Two vehicles have been deployed initially. A third is under design.
Procurement: Two vehicles were purchased under the AMRUT scheme, and one was purchased through the Smart City project.
Cost: Each unit costs between Rs 70 lakh and Rs 80 lakh.
Storage Capacity: Each vehicle can store up to 6000 liters.
Crew: Two trained operators will be on each vehicle, with training provided by Genrobotics.