BWSSB to deploy robots to detect water leaks and illegal connections in Bengaluru

BWSSB will launch a robotics-based system and ‘Green Force’ enforcement team to tackle Bengaluru’s water leakages and illegal connections. Developed with IIT-Madras, the AI-enabled robots can scan pipelines up to 500m to pinpoint leaks and unauthorised tapping points.

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Dhanya Reddy
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  • BWSSB to use robots and AI to detect leaks and illegal connections in Bengaluru
  • IIT-Madras-developed robots can scan 500m pipelines with real-time monitoring
  • Green Force teams to enforce action and curb unauthorised water usage

In a first-of-its-kind move, BWSSB introduces robotics technology and a dedicated ‘Green Force’ team to curb leaks, detect illegal water and UGD connections, and strengthen real-time enforcement.

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is set to revolutionise its water management system by combining robotics technology with human enforcement to detect leaks and illegal connections across Bengaluru.

BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasanth Manohar announced that the initiative includes two key elements, robotics-based inspection and a ‘Green Force’ enforcement unit. The robotic system, developed by IIT-Madras and its startups, will clean and inspect the Central Valve Access (CVA) network and identify leakages in water pipelines.

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“To detect a leakage, we will send a robot inside the pipeline. It will scan and pinpoint the exact location of the fault, which can be monitored in real time for immediate repair,” Manohar said.

The robots, about the size of a toy car, are equipped with high-definition cameras and AI-driven data analysis tools. They can travel up to 500 metres within a pipeline, endure high water pressure, and navigate narrow spaces. Using AI, the system analyses flow patterns to detect both leakages and illegal water tapping points, helping BWSSB prioritise repair and enforcement efforts.

Manohar said the step comes after a sharp rise in illegal water and UGD connections detected in the city. During a drive launched on September 3, BWSSB identified over 6,000 unauthorised connections from 43,000 properties, issued notices to 4,500 buildings, and collected ₹100 crore in fines from 300 apartments and commercial establishments.

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The new Green Force teams will act immediately based on intelligence gathered by robotic inspections, cutting off illegal connections and ensuring offenders face penalties.

Currently, three robots are under pilot testing, and full-scale deployment will follow once their efficiency is proven. Officials say the initiative is a major leap toward making Bengaluru’s water infrastructure smart, transparent, and efficient.

Bengaluru illegal water connections bwssb BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasath Manohar
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