Maharashtra launches ‘Manhole to Machinehole' scheme to end manual scavenging, Rs 504 crore sanctioned
Under the scheme, drains, sewer lines, and septic tanks shall be cleaned using mechanised equipment. The scheme includes procurement of cleaning machinery, modern vehicles, and emergency response sanitation units. It is being implemented by the Urban Development Department (UDD) with an approved funding of Rs 504 crore and an additional RS 100 crore was sanctioned in the Monsoon Session of 2024–25 and disbursed to the department by March 31, 2025.
Procurement of robotic units, cleaning equipment, and emergency vehicles has also begun. Pawar directed that maintenance of these vehicles for three years and training of sanitation workers for operating them must be ensured by the respective agency.
He also directed the UDD to prepare a special proposal for the housing of sanitation workers. Under the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Shram Safalya Awas Yojana, dwelling units are provided free of cost and on ownership basis to the eligible heirs of conservancy workers post their retirement or in the event of death while in service. At present, the benefit is extended only to sanitation workers who have completed 25 years or more of service. Pawar has directed the UDD to prepare a proposal to reduce this service requirement from 25 years to 20 years and present it before the Cabinet.
Pawar has also directed all municipal corporations and councils to strictly implement the government resolution (GR) based on the Lad-Page Committee's recommendations. He said that non-compliance will attract action. The committee established in 1972 to address issues related to the employment of sanitation workers. Pawar stated that civic bodies should submit detailed reports on the number of sanitation workers working in their respective jurisdictions to the UDD.
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