Bengaluru, February 5: In a move aimed at modernising daily sanitation operations and easing the workload of sanitation workers, the Bengaluru North City Corporation on Wednesday launched a pilot project to replace traditional broom-based sweeping with mechanised road cleaning machines.
The pilot was flagged off by Commissioner Pommala Sunil Kumar, who inaugurated the trial run on 1st Main Road near the park at Sahakar Nagar, within the Bengaluru North City Corporation limits.
During the demonstration, the Commissioner personally operated the mechanised cleaning equipment to assess its efficiency and limitations. He also interacted with sanitation workers, briefing them on the usage of the new machines and offering guidance on improving cleanliness standards across the city.
Addressing officials after the symbolic launch, the Commissioner said the initiative aims to upgrade daily road cleaning operations while simplifying the physical workload of sanitation workers. As part of the pilot, mechanised sweepers, blower machines, trolley-mounted dustbins for waste collection, and traffic cones for safety will be used on a trial basis.
He added that sanitation workers should make effective use of the machines during the pilot phase and provide feedback on their performance. Based on an assessment of their advantages and limitations, the Corporation will submit proposals to procure additional machines for wider deployment.
Sanitation Workers Allowed to Use Hotel Toilets
The Commissioner also reiterated existing instructions permitting sanitation workers to use hotel toilets when public restrooms are unavailable during duty hours. He said hotel owners have been requested to cooperate, but instances of obstruction have been reported. Sanitation workers were advised to immediately report any such issues to senior officials for prompt resolution.
Focus on Complaint-Free Sanitation
Emphasising accountability, the Commissioner said sanitation workers must ensure that public complaints related to waste management are minimised. He called upon all staff to work with a sense of responsibility, adding that officials must take timely action to resolve any challenges or concerns faced by workers on the ground.
The interactive inspection and pilot launch were attended by Additional Commissioner Latha, Joint Commissioners Mohammed Nayeem Momin and Pallavi, DGM Rashmi, along with other senior officials and staff of the Corporation.
