The Greater Bengaluru Authority has begun trial runs of remotely operated robotic machines to remove silt from covered stormwater drains in Bengaluru, in a move aimed at improving desilting and reducing flood risks without excavation.
GBA Chief Commissioner M Maheshwar Rao inspected a trial run in HSR Layout on Friday and directed officials to consider extensive deployment of the Super Suction Robotic Machine if the technology proves successful, the authority said.
Officials have been asked to identify stretches requiring desilting, particularly in HSR Layout’s 7th Sector, 17th Cross and surrounding areas. The instructions include ensuring thorough cleaning of the drains to help prevent flooding.
According to the GBA, the machine can operate inside covered stormwater drains and clean up to approximately 30 metres. It is lowered into the drain and controlled wirelessly from outside. Its mechanism loosens accumulated silt, after which the material is removed through a vacuum pipe.
The machine being tested has a total storage capacity of 8,000 litres. Of this, 6,000 litres is designated for silt or sludge and 2,000 litres for water. Separate systems are used to collect the extracted silt and water, according to GBA officials.
The trial is the first time the technology is being tested in Bengaluru. Rao directed officials to ensure that all necessary safety measures are followed to protect personnel working alongside the machine during operations.
The GBA said the equipment could reduce the need for manual intervention and minimise inconvenience to citizens during drain cleaning if the trials are successful. A senior GBA official said the technology could also significantly reduce the time required to clean stormwater drains.
The authority’s next step is to assess the trial, map stretches that require desilting and decide whether the robotic machine should be deployed more extensively across the city.
