To address the persistent dust problem in Guwahati, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has bolstered its fleet with the acquisition of two advanced sweeping machines.
Previously, the GMC operated only two sweeping machines, which proved insufficient for the city’s needs. The new additions, purchased for Rs 5.76 crore, aim to significantly enhance the city’s dust management capabilities.
These diesel-powered machines, manufactured by an Italy-based company, boast the capacity to collect six cubic metres of dust. They are designed to cover a distance of 50 kilometres within an eight-hour operational window. This represents a substantial improvement over the existing machines, which can only collect five cubic metres of dust and cover 30 kilometres in the same timeframe. Additionally, maintaining these new vehicles and the associated manpower costs will require an extra expenditure of Rs 7.38 lakh annually. The chronic shortage of effective sweeping machines has led to significant dust accumulation on Guwahati’s major arterial roads. This not only affects road cleanliness but also contributes to air pollution as dust is stirred up by vehicular movement. The GMC’s recent procurement is part of a broader strategy to mitigate these issues and improve urban air quality.
Complementing the new sweepers, the GMC has also invested in three additional sprinkler machines, each costing over Rs 20 lakh. These sprinklers are expected to play a crucial role in suppressing dust on the roads, thereby reducing airborne particulates and enhancing the overall urban environment. The GMC is optimistic that the introduction of these advanced machines will markedly reduce dust pollution in the city. This initiative reflects the corporation’s commitment to leveraging modern technology for urban cleanliness and public health. As the new machines are deployed, residents can expect a notable improvement in road conditions and a reduction in dust-related problems. By addressing the dust issue with these advanced solutions, the GMC aims to create a cleaner, healthier environment for Guwahati’s residents. This effort is a significant step towards sustainable urban management, underscoring the importance of investing in effective infrastructure to tackle environmental challenges.
