The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is set to enhance its infrastructure capabilities by procuring advanced equipment aimed at improving the city’s drainage cleaning and road sweeping systems.
In a move designed to tackle persistent civic issues, the MCD has announced plans to acquire four super sucker machines and 14 mechanical road sweepers as part of its ongoing efforts to boost sanitation and dust control across the capital. These super sucker machines are expected to play a critical role in unclogging drains and maintaining public hygiene, especially in the face of heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. Two of these machines have already been ordered, while the procurement process for the remaining two will be initiated within the next week. The acquisition aims to address the growing need for efficient drainage systems capable of dealing with extreme weather conditions, such as sudden rain or flooding.
While the MCD currently handles smaller drains, larger drains, typically deeper than four feet, are managed by external agencies. However, officials have stressed that owning such machines will enable the civic body to respond swiftly to any emergencies and improve overall drainage maintenance. These super sucker machines, each costing less than ₹5 crore, will enhance MCD’s capacity for drainage management and significantly reduce response times in critical situations. The two machines procured through external funding have already been approved, and the remaining two will be funded through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
The MCD’s existing fleet of eight super sucker machines has been in operation for several years, with two of them having become outdated as of last year. With the addition of the new machines, the MCD aims to reach a total of ten units, which officials claim will be sufficient to meet the drainage requirements across Delhi’s 12 municipal zones. The zones with fewer deep drains, such as City-Sadar and Paharganj, are not expected to require these machines as frequently. In parallel, the MCD is looking to acquire 14 new mechanical road sweepers. These truck-mounted machines, which come equipped with dust containers, are designed to improve the city’s street cleaning efficiency. The move is part of MCD’s broader strategy to modernise its sanitation infrastructure. However, the procurement of these machines is pending approval from the newly formed standing committee, which has delayed the process. Despite this, MCD officials remain optimistic that the machines will be procured as soon as the necessary approvals are granted.
The MCD’s sanitation sector has been a key focus in this year’s budget, with 29% of total allocations directed towards waste collection and processing systems, a notable increase from the previous year’s allocation of 25.1%. The MCD commissioner has outlined plans to invest in advanced equipment like mechanical road sweepers, super sucker units, and more compacting stations in the coming year. This initiative reflects the growing concern over air quality and waste management in the city, which remains a critical issue for public health. The procurement of these advanced machines underscores a larger shift towards sustainable, eco-friendly solutions within the MCD’s operational framework. With air pollution and waste management being persistent challenges for Delhi, modernising equipment to handle drain cleaning and dust control aligns with the city’s broader goal of achieving a cleaner, greener environment. The addition of these machines not only addresses immediate needs but also contributes to the long-term vision of a well-maintained, more resilient urban infrastructure.
The introduction of these new sanitation machines is a welcome step, given the increasing pressure on Delhi’s civic agencies to manage urban waste effectively. The timely and efficient removal of debris from drains and streets is crucial in maintaining public health standards, especially during the monsoon season. The ability to clear roads quickly will also ensure smoother traffic flow, minimise accidents, and reduce the likelihood of further environmental hazards. Although the MCD’s procurement plans for these machines will improve its current operations, experts suggest that the long-term success of these initiatives will depend on comprehensive strategies that also address waste generation, segregation, and disposal. As the city continues to grow, so too must the systems in place to manage its waste and drainage, ensuring a sustainable future for all residents.
The MCD’s investment in super sucker machines and mechanical road sweepers is a timely and necessary step towards improving Delhi’s sanitation infrastructure. These machines will not only enhance the city’s drainage cleaning capabilities but also contribute to better road maintenance and dust control, addressing key concerns in the capital’s public health and safety. However, for these measures to be truly effective, ongoing efforts in waste management and environmental sustainability will be essential.
MCD to Invest in Modern Machinery for Drain and Road Cleaning
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