MCC invites innovative low-cost ideas for UGD system maintenance

Close on the heels of procuring a robotic machine to detect clogged underground drains and also to prevent manual scavenging, the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) is holding a contest for innovation in maintenance of Under Ground Drainage (UGD) system of the city.

The MCC has invited ideas from students and teams (comprising four members) to find a low-cost solution for the maintenance of the UGD system. This is another effort by the MCC to involve the residents of the city, under the Safai Mitra Challenge.

It is a challenge for engineering students, who are coming up with a variety of innovations every year. Many teams are trying to find new technologies to make life easier. Now, the MCC has given an opportunity to such persons to come up with a low-cost idea or technology, that would help the authorities to solve UGD problems.

Speaking to DH, an officer said, "Though the robotic machine helps in detecting sewer lines and has features for safe work, it is expensive. The cost of the robot is approximately Rs 39 lakh."

With Mysuru city having a lot of conservancy lanes, where vehicles with jetting machines cannot enter, the robotic machine is of great help. But, as it is expensive, MCC thought of inviting ideas from young engineers. This would help us to phase out conventional techniques that includes larger vehicles and more manpower, the officer said.

The MCC is looking for alternative solutions and ideas from engineering students and professionals. Their idea or machine should be relatively low-cost, using available resources. The solution need not be a machine, but can be administrative ideas.

The conditions for innovation proposal include, a low-cost solution (with justification), shall provide faster solution, should improve efficiency in cleaning and maintenance of the UGD system. It should prevent entry into the manhole or septic tank. It should have an advanced warning system, which can alert the likelihood of a blockage, so as to carry out preventive maintenance.

The MCC has announced cash prizes, Rs 20,000, Rs 10,000 and Rs 5,000, respectively. Interested candidates or teams can submit the technical paper, along with their name, address and details of work and institution to [e-mail] before February 15. The selected team or candidates will present their papers at Vani Vilas meeting Hall on February 19.