The Tiruchirappalli City Corporation has taken a significant leap in civic maintenance with the successful trial of a state-of-the-art super sucker machine. The high-tech truck, acquired at a cost of Rs 3.7 crore, was deployed on Wednesday to tackle a stubborn underground drainage (UGD) blockage on Puthur Main Road in Woraiyur.
A Swift and Efficient Solution
During the trial run, the powerful vehicle efficiently removed construction debris and stones that were obstructing the sewage flow. Technical experts from the Coimbatore-based manufacturer were present to guide the corporation staff. They operated the machine using a remote-control panel to insert the vacuum suction tube deep into the manhole, demonstrating its advanced functionality.
Councillor K Suresh from Woraiyur highlighted the machine's effectiveness, comparing it to older methods. "Previously, workers had to use the probe of a jet rodding machine and often enter manholes to clear complex clogs," he said. "With this new truck, a major block was cleared in a short time without anyone needing to enter the manhole." He also noted that the operation was carried out without causing any damage to the road surface.
Advanced Design and Future Plans
The super sucker truck is engineered with a sophisticated 13,000-litre capacity tank, intelligently divided into three separate compartments. This design includes a 4,500-litre section for collecting silt, a 6,500-litre chamber for recycling sewage, and a 2,000-litre tank to store treated water which can be used for clearing future blockages.
Officials confirmed that the corporation's sanitary workers will receive formal training in the coming days to operate the vehicle independently. This move aims to build in-house expertise and ensure the machine's optimal use for the city's sanitation needs.
Calls for Dedicated Operations
Following the successful demonstration, local councillors have urged the municipal body to form a dedicated team specifically tasked with operating the super sucker truck. They believe a specialized squad will ensure the high-value asset is maintained properly and deployed swiftly wherever major drainage blocks occur across Trichy, leading to more efficient urban management.
This investment marks a shift towards mechanized and safer solutions for public health and civic infrastructure maintenance in the city.
