Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 30: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has directed state officials to speed up and ensure effective implementation of the ‘Manhole to Machinehole’ initiative — a scheme aimed at eradicating manual scavenging by replacing human effort with modern, mechanised solutions.

Chairing a high-level meeting on sanitation reforms, Pawar said the Urban Development Department is spearheading the scheme, which has a total allocation of Rs 504 crore, with an additional Rs 100 crore sanctioned during the 2024–25 Monsoon Session and disbursed by March 31, 2025.

The scheme involves the procurement of robotic cleaning units, mechanised vehicles, and rapid-response sanitation equipment to clean sewer lines, septic tanks, and drains.

“Sanitation workers must be trained to operate this new equipment, and agencies must ensure three years of maintenance support for these machines,” Pawar instructed during the meeting.

The push comes days after Pawar told the Maharashtra Assembly that the government is committed to launching a time-bound programme to completely eliminate manual scavenging across the state. He also assured that the state would allocate all necessary funds to ensure full mechanisation.

As part of welfare measures, Pawar highlighted the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Shram Safalya Awas Yojana, which offers free, ownership-based housing to the families of conservancy workers upon retirement or death in service. He proposed that the current 25-year minimum service eligibility be reduced to 20 years, and directed the Urban Development Department to present a formal proposal before the Cabinet.

He further stressed the implementation of the Lad-Page Committee recommendations, warning that non-compliance by municipal corporations and councils would invite strict action.

Finally, Pawar ordered every civic body in Maharashtra to submit a comprehensive report detailing the number of sanitation workers employed within their jurisdictions, underlining the need for clear data to monitor progress and accountability.

The initiative marks a major step toward improving dignity and safety for sanitation workers, while modernising urban hygiene infrastructure across the state.