The Human Side of Sewer Cleaning

Robots that navigate sewer pipes are being used to find leaks and blockages in an ancient water system. They’re being put to work in Pune, India, to access dangerous and noxious spots that otherwise would be checked by people. The sewage systems are more than 100 years old and the maps have been lost or are just outdated. So the robots are being used to update the maps, which should eventually lead to less leaks and so less contamination in the water. But the machines also replace manual work that is done by some of the poorest members of Indian society. We explore what it will mean for their wellbeing and livelihoods. Presenter: Myra Anubi Reporter: Chhavi Sachdev Executive producer: Tom Colls Editor: Penny Murphy Image: The sewer robot in Pune