Himatnagar, Gujarat: In a landmark move under the Swachh Bharat Mission’s Emergency Response Sanitation Unit (ERSU) initiative, the Gujarat Urban Development Mission (GUDM) has deployed Bandicoot Mobility+, an advanced vehicle-integrated robotic manhole cleaning system, across multiple Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
This initiative is part of Gujarat’s larger goal to become a manual scavenging–free state and reflects the state’s growing commitment to urban transformation during its declared Year of Urban Development 2025.
Developed by Kerala-based deep-tech startup Genrobotics, Bandicoot Mobility+ is designed to eliminate human entry into manholes.
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The robot features a high-precision robotic arm, gas detection sensors, HD cameras, and a sealed waste management unit – all integrated into a compact vehicle that can access narrow urban lanes. This makes it particularly effective for dense Indian cities striving for modern sanitation standards.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat’s focus on #ManholeToMachineHole is not just technological – it is a systemic reform grounded in dignity, safety, and inclusivity.
Bandicoot Mobility: Driving Measurable Improvements
The rollout of Bandicoot Mobility+ in cities like Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Surat, and Himatnagar is already driving measurable improvements in sanitation efficiency and worker safety.
“Bandicoot Mobility+ has revolutionized our operations,” said Upendra P Gadhvi, Chief Officer of Himatnagar Nagarpalika. “Workers are now operating the machines remotely, without being exposed to toxic gases or manual cleaning tasks. It’s a transformative solution.”
Sanitation workers, too, are experiencing a meaningful shift in their roles. “Now I don’t even have to go near a manhole,” said an ERSU-trained operator in Himatnagar. “Gas sensors alert us in advance, and the system prevents any waste spillage. It’s safe, and it has changed my life.”
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Gujarat’s urban model is receiving national recognition for innovation and cleanliness. Ahmedabad was named India’s Cleanest Big City, Surat secured second place in the Super Swachh League, and Gandhinagar earned distinction in the 3–10 lakh population category. These accolades underscore how Bandicoot Mobility+ is enabling a quiet yet powerful technological revolution in urban sanitation.
According to Arun George, Director and Co-founder of Genrobotics, “Every city that has adopted Bandicoot Mobility+ has taken a big step toward safer, smarter sanitation. Gujarat’s strategic, state-led deployment sets an example for the rest of India.”
With over 300 Indian cities already deploying Bandicoot technology and more than 3,000 sanitation workers impacted, Gujarat’s approach stands out for its scale, integration, and human focus. Encouraged by positive outcomes and frontline feedback, the Government of Gujarat is now planning statewide adoption of Bandicoot Mobility+.
As 2025 marks 20 years since the state’s first Urban Development Year initiated by then Chief Minister Narendra Modi, Gujarat is reaffirming its commitment to sustainable urbanization – this time with robotic solutions at the core.
