Pune Municipal Corporation to Inspect Old Water Channels Using Robots
Pune, 15th March 2025: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated a project to inspect old water channels in the city using robotic technology. Inspired by a similar initiative by the Sangli-Kupwad Municipal Corporation, PMC has begun a pilot project to assess the feasibility of using robots for pipeline inspections.
Nandkishore Jagtap, head of PMC’s water supply department, stated, “The internal inspection of water pipelines is being conducted using robotic technology. We are receiving images and video footage of the pipelines’ conditions. Currently, the trial is being carried out at two locations. Based on the results, a decision will be made on whether to purchase the robot permanently or use it on a rental basis.”
Several old water channels exist in Pune’s central areas, but the municipal administration has limited information about their conditions. These aging pipelines often leak, causing water loss and contamination. Until now, identifying issues required extensive road digging, leading to traffic congestion and inconvenience to commuters.
The robot used for this inspection is equipped with advanced cameras that provide real-time visuals of the pipeline’s interior. This allows the water supply department to detect leaks, assess damages, and identify unauthorized or authorized pipe connections without physically excavating the roads. The inspection will focus on pipelines with a diameter of more than 100 millimeters.
Many of the city’s water channels are over 40 years old, making them prone to internal corrosion and bursts, leading to water contamination. Despite multiple repairs, leaks persist in some pipelines. After learning about Sangli-Kupwad Municipal Corporation’s success with robotic pipeline inspection, PMC has decided to conduct trials in Pune.
Currently, the robotic inspection is being carried out in Kasba Peth and Vadgaon. The process involves drilling a small hole in the pipeline and deploying the robot inside. The robot can travel approximately 180 meters in both directions within the pipeline, capturing high-resolution images and videos with its 360-degree rotating camera and built-in lighting.
With positive results emerging from the pilot project, PMC aims to expand the use of robotic inspections across the city, reducing the need for road excavations and improving the efficiency of pipeline repairs.
