Robotic Canal Cleaner Shelved Months After Launch

A high-tech robotic canal cleaning system, G-Spider, launched by the state government's LSG department in January, has been shelved by the T'puram city corporation. The AI-powered system was intended to revolutionize waste removal in the Amayizhanjan Canal. However, the corporation has found it ineffective due to the canal's heavily polluted state and the nature of the waste, which includes plastic, construction debris, and silt.

Corporation officials stated that the robotic system could not handle the volume and compacted nature of the accumulated waste. Consequently, manual cleaning operations have resumed, utilizing earthmovers to clear the canal. This traditional approach has proven more effective in removing large volumes of waste swiftly. Officials suggest the G-Spider technology might be suitable for less challenging environments, advocating for refinement rather than outright abandonment.

As a long-term solution, the corporation is considering covering heavily polluted and densely populated canal sections with concrete slabs, incorporating manholes for future maintenance. Proposed areas include Thakaraparambu and Thampanoor. This plan aims to prevent further waste dumping and improve sanitation. The civic body, responsible for the canal's maintenance, views this as a necessary step despite potential criticism and financial considerations. The irrigation department is also undertaking similar canal enclosure work.