No More Broken Roads? BWSSB’s Robots Fix Sewers Without Digging at 38 Bengaluru Locations

According to officials, the use of robotic systems has led to better detection of hidden blockages, structural defects, and internal damages, which previously required repeated trial-and-error digging. Since the rollout, 75 service requests have been received, of which 67 sites have already been addressed, with only 11 cases currently pending.

Through robotic inspections, BWSSB teams detected over 93 underground issues, allowing for targeted repairs instead of repeated road cutting. This approach has helped save several lakhs of rupees in excavation and road restoration costs, while preserving newly laid roads and footpaths.

More importantly, the technology has spared residents from prolonged road closures, traffic congestion, dust, noise, and access loss, ensuring faster service restoration and minimal public inconvenience.

The initiative has also improved worker safety by reducing the need for manual entry into hazardous underground sewer systems.

BWSSB Chairman Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar, IAS, said the project reflects a shift toward smart, citizen-centric infrastructure management.
“Robotic inspection technology has helped us avoid unnecessary excavation at 38 locations. This has saved public money, protected roads, and most importantly, reduced hardship for citizens caused by repeated digging and traffic disruption,” he said.

He added that BWSSB plans to expand robotic inspections across more zones, aiming to further cut response times, lower operational costs, and improve service delivery across Bengaluru.