Varanasi: In a major step towards modernising urban sanitation infrastructure, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation has introduced advanced robotic technology to identify sewer leaks, blockages and other pipeline-related problems. The initiative aims to improve sewer maintenance, minimise unnecessary road excavation and provide faster relief to residents facing drainage and sewage issues.
The civic body has entered into an agreement with Chennai-based Solinas Integrity Private Limited for the project, which is being financially supported by Coca-Cola under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. Ground-level operations and field documentation began on Thursday.
Mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari, Deputy Chairman Narsingh Das, Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal, Jal Kal General Manager Anoop Singh and other officials attended the programme.
Under the initiative, specialised robots and advanced cameras will be deployed to inspect underground sewer pipelines and identify faults without extensive excavation. When a complaint regarding leakage, blockage or contaminated water is received, the inspection team will examine the affected pipeline using cameras and robotic equipment inserted through a small access point.
The technology will help identify problems such as corrosion, obstructions and blockages while determining their exact location, enabling repair teams to excavate only the affected section.
Two Advanced Technologies for Pipeline Inspection
The project uses two specialised inspection systems to examine pipelines of different sizes.
A special endoscopic camera is designed to inspect pipes ranging from 50 mm to 125 mm in diameter. For larger pipelines, the Endo-90 robotic system can examine pipes measuring between 125 mm and 400 mm.
These technologies provide a detailed view of the internal condition of sewer lines and help pinpoint the exact location requiring repairs.
Mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari said the effective use of modern technology was essential for urban development and improving civic amenities. He added that the initiative would help prevent unnecessary digging of roads while enabling residents to receive quicker solutions to sewer-related complaints.
Company representatives Devanshu Kumar and Moinaz Banerjee were also present at the programme.
The project is expected to strengthen Varanasi’s sewer maintenance system through technology-driven monitoring, more accurate fault detection and targeted repairs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=RtToJsBhYBatUrym&v=mOuYNSdhjHA&feature=youtu.be
