Manual scavenging has always been socially stigmatised and was equally a physically cumbersome task. In order to provide an effective solution to this problem, a startup was incubated in the Technology Business Incubator (TBI) of IIT Madras. This initiative has been supported by the Union Science Ministry and it has developed India's first septic tank/manhole cleaning robot.
The use of robotic solutions shall save manual workers from cleaning septic tanks and manholes. The work of this cleaning job will save these workers from a toxic environment that has already swallowed the lives of many across the country.
Data records show that over 1,000 persons died while being engaged in sewers and septic tank cleaning in the country since 1993 with nearly one-third of them losing their lives.
The robotic solution, called Homosep Atom, has already been stationed by civic bodies in 16 cities including Chennai, Madurai and Coimbatore. Replaces manual cleaning methods with robotic measures using extensive blade cleanings, solid waste desilting, suction and storage by a single device. It has been developed by a deep-tech and climate-tech startup called Solinas.
Department of Science and Technology (DST) supported such a startup and it has been a major source of encouragement for youngsters.
They are motivated to develop their knowledge-based enterprises and solve societal challenges as well as contribute to the growth and development of the country.
The startup which developed the affordable robotic solution integrated Artificial Intelligence (AI) to inspect, clean and manage space for sanitation purposes.
The usage of this robotic solution enabled municipalities to promptly and efficiently clean, clear and transport waste to sewage plants.
This step has been taken as an attempt to strengthen the Swachhata Abhiyan in different corners of the world. The application of Homosep Atom was also extended to the densely populated areas of Chennai. Targeting septic tanks associated with large apartments, housing boards, and individual houses.
The startup specialises in developing miniature robots, including India's 1st 90mm water robot and 120mm sewer tank and navigating pipeline contamination to address water pollution challenges. Solutions should be sustainable and scalable.
Solinas's AI-based pipeline defect identification and assessment services are economical and shall improve the drinking water supply to more than 1,000 households. The Sewerage and Infrastructural Development Corporation of Goa (SIDGCL) led to quicker and cost-effective solutions. Illegal tappings and cross-contaminations thereby improving pipeline integrity and water access.
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References:
- india.indiatimes.com
- pib.gov.in