The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to launch two unmanned electric boats to tackle garbage collection near the Gateway of India, starting from the first week of June. This initiative aims to clean up the popular tourist area, improve water quality, and safeguard marine life.
Kiran Dighavkar, Deputy Municipal Commissioner (DMC), explained that there had been a prolonged debate between the Mumbai Maritime Board (MMB) and BMC regarding responsibility for waste management at Gateway and Apollo Bunder. In response, the BMC has developed a solution involving unmanned electric boats that are both environmentally friendly and suitable for marine environments.
The boats, each costing ₹1.2 crore, will be remotely operated and strategically deployed based on high tide schedules. One boat will be stationed at the Gateway of India, while the other will be positioned at Badhwar Park near Apollo Bunder, areas where waste tends to accumulate. The boats will utilise a conveyor belt system to collect up to 1,200 kilograms of waste.
Designed for durability, the 4-metre-long boats will be equipped with cameras, an AI-based dashboard, solar charging capabilities, and a self-docking system with magnets to ensure they remain secure during tidal shifts. Each boat will operate for up to eight hours on a single charge. The cost also includes a year’s worth of operation and maintenance.
This project is part of the BMC’s broader efforts to clean up tourist spots, reduce water contamination risks, prevent the spread of disease, and minimise the impact of waste on the local fishing industry. The introduction of unmanned electric boats marks a significant step forward in Mumbai’s commitment to environmental sustainability and cleaner waterfronts.
Source: Hindustan Times.
