Pune: The Maharashtra state government has intervened in Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) underground sewage pipeline cleaning operations, directing the civic body to invest ₹95.04 crore over the next seven years for this purpose. As part of the initiative, PMC has rented 13 high-capacity jetting and suction machines to improve sewage cleaning efficiency across the city.
PMC had been managing sewage cleaning operations through short-term rentals. However, following recommendations from the Directorate of Municipal Administration, PMC initially planned to acquire six machines, but later increased the count to 13 as per government instructions. To avoid prolonged discussions, the Standing Committee approved the proposal at the last moment during its meeting.
Pune’s Expanding Sewage Network & Cleaning Mechanism
Pune has a vast sewage infrastructure spanning 2,515 kilometers, with 1,42,463 manholes requiring regular cleaning. To maintain cleanliness and prevent blockages, PMC has now deployed 13 advanced jetting and suction machines, including:
Eight high-capacity (18.5-ton) machines
Five medium-capacity (7-8 ton) machines
These machines will be operational for seven years, with all maintenance and operational costs borne by PMC.
The total expenditure for the project is ₹95.04 crore, with ₹13.57 crore allocated annually for machine rentals and maintenance. The funds will be incorporated into PMC’s municipal budget under Rule 72(B) for the next seven years.
To ensure the safety of sewage workers, the government has made it mandatory for municipal corporations to use advanced jetting machines and water purification systems. PMC had submitted a request for these vehicles in September, which was subsequently approved.
Apart from sewage cleaning, PMC has also issued a seven-year tender worth ₹172 crore for mechanical road sweeping operations covering 12 major city roads. These tenders were approved last month.