Gujarat, Aug 01, 2025: In a significant push toward improving urban sanitation and worker safety, the Government of Gujarat has deployed the Bandicoot Mobility+ robotic manhole cleaning system across several Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) under the Swachh Bharat Mission’s Emergency Response Sanitation Unit (ERSU) program. Spearheaded by the Gujarat Urban Development Mission (GUDM), this move aligns with the state’s broader goal of becoming manual scavenging–free and promoting dignified and safer sanitation work.
The Bandicoot Mobility+, developed by Genrobotics, is a vehicle-integrated robotic system designed to eliminate the need for human entry into manholes. It features a precision robotic arm, robotic legs, high-definition cameras, gas detection sensors, and a sealed waste management system. Its compact, vehicle-mounted design allows it to access narrow urban lanes, enhancing the efficiency and reach of sanitation services.
This initiative is part of Gujarat’s observance of 2025 as the Year of Urban Development, commemorating 20 years since the original Urban Development Year was introduced in 2005 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, then Chief Minister of Gujarat. Under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state is reinforcing its commitment to improving urban living standards through inclusive and technologically advanced services.
The deployment of Bandicoot Mobility+ marks a key component of Gujarat’s #ManholeToMachineHole campaign, focusing on transitioning from hazardous manual scavenging practices to technology-driven solutions. The robots have already been introduced in cities such as Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, and Surat, each of which has received national recognition for sanitation and urban innovation.
“Himatnagar, one of the many ULBs where Bandicoot Mobility+ is operational, has seen firsthand the impact of the robotic solution. ‘Bandicoot Mobility+ has revolutionized sanitation operations here. It ensures the safety of our workers while improving efficiency and cleanliness,’” said Upendra P. Gadhvi, Chief Officer, Himatnagar Nagarpalika.
Sanitation workers in Himatnagar have also welcomed the shift. “Now, I don’t even have to go near the manhole. The gas sensors alert us before any danger, and the sealed system means no spillage. It’s safe and life-changing,” said a worker from the ERSU team operating the robot.
Arun G, Director and Co-founder of Genrobotics, emphasized the significance of the collaboration. “Every city that has implemented Bandicoot has quietly advanced its sanitation game. We’re proud that our technology is part of Gujarat’s long-term urban vision, and even prouder of the human impact it brings.”
GUDM is now considering statewide adoption of the technology, reinforcing Gujarat’s leadership in sanitation reform and its commitment to the health, safety, and dignity of its sanitation workforce.
Genrobotics was founded in 2017 in response to the tragic loss of lives in manual scavenging incidents. Since then, its robotic solutions have been deployed in over 300 cities across India, improving the lives of over 3,000 sanitation workers through technology and skill development.
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