Smart sanitation: HMWSSB explores AI-based tech for sewer cleaning operations in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has conducted a field-level pilot of an advanced AI-based de-silting technology aimed at fully mechanising and automating sewer cleaning operations.

The new system, which integrates artificial intelligence, satellite data, and GIS mapping, is designed to carry out human-free, faster, and safer de-silting of manholes and underground sewer pipelines.

Field trial conducted by senior officials

The pilot demonstration was held in the O&M Division–2 area, where HMWSSB Managing Director Ashok Reddy and Executive Director Mayank Mittal jointly reviewed the technology’s on-ground performance.

Officials explained that the system enables automatic positioning of robotic equipment at manholes, allowing de-silting works to be completed efficiently without human entry.

How the technology works

According to the Water Board, the new solution operates using satellite-based inputs combined with GIS intelligence, creating a smart and responsive sewer management framework.

Key features of the technology:

Robotic self-detecting systems capable of cleaning both vertical manholes and horizontal pipelines.

AI-driven prediction and prevention tools that can identify potential blockages before they occur.

Live digital mapping of the underground sewerage network through satellite and GIS integration.

Real-time dashboards linked with existing systems to monitor, track, and plan sanitation operations across the city.

Building on earlier success

Officials noted that HMWSSB has already successfully implemented several innovative sanitation initiatives under a 90-day special action programme, without incurring additional expenditure.

The introduction of this AI-based de-silting technology marks the beginning of a new phase in smart urban sanitation management. With this pilot, HMWSSB aims to set new benchmarks in safety, efficiency, and technology-led governance in urban sewerage maintenance.

The inspection was attended by Operations Director Vinod Bhargava, CGM Nagender, GM Shyam Sundar Naik, and other senior officials of the Water Board.