Bengaluru begins testing smart ‘Gobbler’ cleaning machine across major city roads

The new battery-operated Smart Litter Picker machine was demonstrated on Commercial Street as part of Bengaluru’s wider push towards smarter and technology-driven urban cleaning systems across the city. Bengaluru has taken another step towards improving urban cleanliness with the trial run of a new Smart Litter Picker machine named “Gobbler.” Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao inspected the live demonstration of the machine on Commercial Street. Officials clarified that the demonstration was conducted on Commercial Street as part of a pilot project, but the initiative is aimed at improving cleanliness across major roads and commercial zones throughout Bengaluru. The new machine is being introduced under the directions of Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D.K. Shivakumar, as part of the city’s larger effort to modernise sanitation and civic maintenance using smart technology. Also Read: Bengaluru: Kadirenahalli underpass flooding triggers action after heavy rains Authorities said the Gobbler is a battery-operated smart cleaning machine specially designed for urban roads and crowded public areas. Once fully charged for about three hours, the machine can function continuously for nearly eight hours. The Smart Litter Picker is also equipped with a GPS tracking system, allowing civic officials to monitor its movement and operational efficiency during field deployment. Officials highlighted that one of the key advantages of the machine is its ability to operate smoothly even on narrow and crowded roads where larger cleaning vehicles face difficulties. The machine can collect several forms of roadside waste including dust, plastic materials, paper waste and dry leaves. The Gobbler machine is fitted with a 240-litre waste collection container and also includes a water pressure cleaning system for better road maintenance and surface cleaning. Also Read: Smoke scare on IndiGo flight at Bengaluru airport; Over 230 passengers evacuated safely Following the demonstration, officials were instructed to conduct pilot operations of the machine on several important roads and market areas across Bengaluru’s Central Business District. These locations include MG Road, Church Street, KR Market, Russell Market and other major public stretches. Civic authorities said the performance of the machine will be closely studied during the trial phase before expanding its use to more parts of the city.