Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation Showcases Bandicoot Manhole-Cleaning Robot to Yogi Adityanath

Municipal officials in Ghaziabad presented the Bandicoot manhole-cleaning robot to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, highlighting advancements in sanitation technology aimed at improving worker safety and efficiency across Uttar Pradesh.

Municipal officials showcased the Bandicoot, a manhole-cleaning robot, to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. This demonstration is part of an initiative aimed at modernising and mechanising the city's sanitation infrastructure. The focus is on ensuring the safety and well-being of sanitation workers. Municipal commissioner Vikramaditya Malik informed CM Yogi about the project during the demonstration.

The Bandicoot robot was first introduced in 2018 to support major government initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Swachh Survekshan, and the Safaimitra Suraksha Challenge. These initiatives aim to promote safe and dignified sanitation practices across India. The robot's design includes a robotic arm, stabilising legs, and a powerful bucket system that can enter manholes to clear blockages and remove hardened sludge without human intervention.

Technology-Driven Sewer Maintenance

This initiative is part of Uttar Pradesh's broader effort to implement technology-driven sewer maintenance. The programme began in Agra in February 2025, where the Bandicoot robot has already cleaned over 1,500 manholes within six months. Operations are also scheduled to start in Bulandshahr this month, according to an official statement.

Chief Minister Adityanath personally inaugurated the Bandicoot robot in Gorakhpur. This move signifies the state's commitment to enhancing sanitation infrastructure through technological advancements. By reducing human involvement in hazardous environments, these robots aim to improve worker safety significantly.

Training for Skilled Robotic Operators

Alongside deploying this technology, VA Tech Wabag is offering training programmes for sanitation workers. These programmes are designed to help workers transition into skilled robotic operators. This training ensures that workers can safely and effectively operate the Bandicoot robots, thus improving their job prospects and safety.

The introduction of such technology not only modernises sanitation practices but also aligns with national efforts to ensure safer working conditions for sanitation workers. By integrating advanced technology into everyday operations, cities can enhance efficiency while prioritising worker safety.

The Bandicoot robot represents a significant step towards modernising India's sanitation infrastructure. By reducing human exposure to hazardous conditions, it ensures safer working environments for sanitation workers while maintaining efficient sewer maintenance operations.

With inputs from PTI