The Ministry of Science and Technology announced India’s first septic tank cleaning robot, Homosep Atom, aimed at eliminating manual scavenging and implementing the Swachhata Bharat Abhiyan across the nation.
The technology has been developed by the startup incubated in the Department of Science and Technology(DST)-Technology Business Incubator(TBI) of IIT Madras, which solves manual cleaning methods and transforms it to robotic cleaning methods. The project has reached over 16 cities in different parts of India and empowers extensive blade cleanings, solid waste desilting, suction and storage at one device, thereby reducing cost of owning multiple assets and promotes robotic cleaning in sewers.
The startup called Solinas, which developed this afforsbale robotic solution integrated Artifical Intelligence to inspect, clean and manage confined space for sanitation pruposes.
Homosep Atom's application expanded to Chennai's congested areas, targeting septic tanks in large apartments, housing boards, and individual houses. This streamlined waste management process facilitated prompt and efficient waste transportation to treatment plants by Municipalities. Additionally, the introduction of manhole cleaning robots empowered sanitary workers to clean manholes externally, eliminating the need to enter hazardous environments and ensuring their dignity.
Solinas, a deep-tech and climate tech startup originating from IIT Madras, aims to tackle water and sanitation challenges while addressing climate issues. Supported by IIT Madras DST-TBI, Solinas developed innovative products like India's first 90mm water robot and 120mm sewer robot, capable of navigating narrow pipelines to combat contamination. Through DST's backing, Solinas ensured sustainable and scalable solutions.
Apart from their flagship products, Solinas addressed various climatic challenges including water wastage, groundwater pollution, and manual scavenging. Their technologies like Endobot and Swasth AI served as diagnostic tools to detect and mitigate water contamination and sewer overflows, especially in cities like Coimbatore where underground issues often go unnoticed.
Solinas's AI-based pipeline defect identification and assessment services significantly improved water supply in cities like Hubbali and streamlined sewage pipeline solutions for SIDGCL in Goa. Collaborating with Chennai metro, Solinas identified and tackled cross-contamination issues, enhancing pipeline integrity and water access.
Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary DST, highlighted the importance of DST's support for startups like Solinas, emphasizing its role in encouraging young entrepreneurs to develop knowledge-based enterprises that address societal challenges and contribute to national growth.
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