In a move to boost waste management in Meghalaya, the state government has partnered with ‘Clearbot’ under its Smart Village Movement (SVM) to deploy an AI-integrated robotic boat to clean up Umiam Lake, reports East Mojo.
Originally tested in Bali for tourism in Indonesia, this technology is now being used in Meghalaya to collect waste floating in Umiam Lake. The project’s demonstration at Kyndong Rella on Friday resulted in the collection of 250 kilograms of waste in just three hours, it was reported.
The partnership brings together AI and marine engineering to promote ecological sustainability and involves various stakeholders, including government bodies, corporations, local leaders, fishermen, and the community.
‘Clearbot’ is optimistic about its potential and aims to restore Umiam Lake to its original state within six months. Tulenam Laloo, Director of Operations for the SVM initiative, emphasized the technology’s efficiency in addressing waste challenges. He said, “It will create standard processes to handle waste in a timely manner making operations more efficient than conventional ones.”
Siddhant, Founder of Clearbot, noted the partnership’s commitment to environmental rejuvenation and rural development. He said, “We aim to demonstrate how technology-driven clean-up initiatives can contribute to holistic rural development” that aligns with the project’s vision for a sustainable future.
The boat’s capacity to remove debris and oil, powered by electricity, was commended by local fishermen. Various stakeholders, including Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited, Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation, tourism department, local municipality, village headman, fishermen, and Mawdun village residents, witnessed this innovative initiative.