Kerala: First State to use Robotic Manhole cleaners

Kerala uses a BANDICOOT robot to clean sewage. With this, it has become the first state to launch robotic scavengers. BANDICOOT was launched in the temple town Guruvayur. Genrobotics developed the robot. The main objective of developing the robot is to eliminate manual scavenging. The robot has been in use since 2018. However, this is the first time, it is being used to clean public manholes, replacing humans. The robot fulfils its purpose of the invention for the first time. BANDICOOT was already used in several other states but not for scavenging purposes and not in public places.

Working of BANDICOOT

The Bandicoot has a robotic Tron unit. It is the major component of the robot and the unit operates just like the limb of man. The Tron enters the manhole, digs and collects the waste. The robot is waterproof and fireproof. It has cameras and sensors. Bandicoot can detect harmful gases.

Awards for BANDICOOT

Genrobotics received the “Kerala Pride” award for building BANDICOOT. The award was presented under Kerala Startup Mission. Also, Genrobotics received National Award for developing the robot.

Why the name BANDICOOT?

The Bandicoots are terrestrial omnivores endemic to Australia. The animal is a digger. The robot operates just like the animal digging the waste from the manhole and thus the name.

About BANDICOOT

It is the first robotic scavenger in the world. It was developed under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Make in India initiative. IOCL announced that it will use BANDICOOT robots to clean certain spots in its refineries.


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