Gorakhpur City Deploys Manhole-cleaning Robot of Kerala-based Genrobotics

NEW DELHI:
Marking a significant move to phase out manual scavenging completely, Gorakhpur Nagar Nigam in Uttar Pradesh deployed the manhole-cleaning robot ‘Bandicoot’ developed by Kerala-based Genrobotic Innovations on the Gandhi Jayanthi day on October 2.

Deploying Bandicoot in his home town, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the government is committed to eradicating the centuries-old socially-demeaning practice of manual scavenging.

Adityanath added that deployment of the robot is part of the determination of the government to protect the health and dignity of sanitation workers by adopting cutting-edge technologies.

According to an official, the introduction of Bandicoot at Gorakhpur Nagar Nigam is a major step towards using robotic solutions for manhole cleaning, in line with the national mission to eliminate manual scavenging, which has been banned under the Manual Scavenging Act of 2013. He said this step shows the city’s determination to replace dangerous practices with advanced technology for public welfare.

Due to the high levels of satisfaction delivered by the 11 Bandicoot robots that are already doing the job in cities such as Kanpur, Lucknow, Meerut, and Prayag Raj in Uttar Pradesh, the government is now planning to deploy this technology across the state. This proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to improving urban sanitation and ensuring the safety of sanitation workers across the state, the official said.

Developed by national award-winning Company Genrobotics, Bandicoot robot is the world’s first robotic scavenger that has been recognized as a revolutionary tool for manhole cleaning. It has so far been deployed in 19 states and three Union Territories, demonstrating its effectiveness and reliability in diverse environments, including the snowy expanse of Leh and the sand dunes of Rajasthan.

Introduced in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bandicoot robot operates by being lowered into a manhole, where its 180-degree robotic arm removes sewage.

It features 4 high-definition cameras for clear visibility, toxic gas sensors for operator safety, and robotic legs for smooth navigation inside a manhole. These advanced capabilities make Bandicoot an invaluable asset for urban sanitation, removing the need for human entry in hazardous environments like manholes and paving the way for a safer future for sanitation workers.

In recognition of its groundbreaking contributions to sanitation and safety, Genrobotics has received numerous prestigious awards, including the National Startup Award, Amrut Award, Swachhata Startup Challenge, and the BIRAC Award.

The company’s founders have also earned a place in the esteemed Forbes 30 Under-30 Asia list, highlighting their commitment to innovation and social impact.