BMC plans electric boats for waste cleanup in Mumbai

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to use electric boats to clean up floating waste near the Gateway of India and Badhwar Park in Cuffe Parade. This initiative will cost around Rs 2.5 crore and aims to tackle rising levels of debris, plastic, and algae in these popular tourist areas. The unmanned electric boats will be designed to handle sea conditions and will have a conveyor belt system for collecting waste. They will be remotely operated through an AI-powered dashboard, with live camera feeds for real-time monitoring. BMC officials emphasized the importance of this project for maintaining cleanliness and protecting the marine ecosystem. Over the years, increasing marine pollution has posed risks to water quality and public health. Waste that floats in the water can carry harmful bacteria and viruses. This is especially concerning for fishing areas, as mixed waste can lead to outbreaks of water-borne diseases. Local leaders, including former corporator Harshita Narwekar, noted that while this initiative comes a bit late, it is necessary for cleaning the coast. Trash often accumulates near Badhwar Park during the monsoon due to strong currents bringing waste from far away. BMC officials have also highlighted that a clean coastline boosts tourism and benefits the local economy. A tidy area attracts visitors, encourages recreational activities, and supports local businesses. However, some residents, like Colaba’s Pervez Cooper, stress the need for consistent monitoring of these initiatives. He pointed out that people frequently dispose of waste improperly, and the electric boats must operate regularly to be effective.