Chennai is preparing for the upcoming Northeast monsoon by implementing a comprehensive cleaning strategy for its beaches and canals. The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has taken a significant step forward by introducing robotic excavator machines and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) to enhance monitoring, enforcement, and cleanup efforts.
The new equipment was inaugurated by the state sports minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, at Marina Beach on Sunday. The ATVs, each costing 16 lakh rupees, will be operated by GCC’s conservancy staff to monitor the cleanliness of Marina, Besant Nagar, and Thiruvanmiyur beaches. These vehicles will play a crucial role in penalizing litterers, alerting officers about encroachments near the high-tide line, and overseeing the daily cleanup efforts by GCC contractors. The semi-automatic, two-seater quad bikes are capable of reaching speeds up to 60 kmph on the beaches.
Deputy Mayor Mahesh Kumar highlighted the challenges faced by the conservancy staff in covering vast stretches on foot, making it difficult to effectively enforce fines for plastic and garbage violations. He emphasized that the ATVs will significantly enhance efficiency in this regard. “These vehicles will make our work more efficient. A staff member in the rear seat can also capture photos and videos of violations as the vehicle moves. Additionally, our staff will monitor cleaning activities carried out by Urbaser on the beaches and ensure that key performance indicators are met,” he said.
The sports minister also inaugurated 100 new bins shaped like fish, sharks, and other animals for the beaches. These creative bins are designed to appeal to children and encourage them to dispose of their waste responsibly. “Kids often throw papers and waste on the sand. These structures are designed to invoke curiosity and interest among children, encouraging parents to guide them in using the bins,” added Mahesh Kumar.
In addition to the beach cleaning initiative, GCC has also procured two robotic multipurpose excavator machines specifically designed to operate in canals with widths less than 3.5 meters. These machines, acquired at a total cost of 22.8 crore rupees with a five-year maintenance contract, will be deployed in mini-canals located in areas such as Nandanam, Ambattur, Padi Kuppam, Pulianthope, and Reddy Kuppam. The cleaning operation is scheduled to commence on Monday.
The introduction of these technologically advanced cleaning solutions reflects Chennai’s commitment to maintaining a clean and healthy environment for its citizens, especially as the city prepares for the monsoon season. The initiative is expected to significantly enhance the effectiveness of cleaning operations and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable city.
