Council’s Modern Approach to Sewerage Pipe Monitoring

One of the more important but less glamorous jobs, sewer inspections and pipe condition assessments are vital to maintaining core wastewater services. MDC’s Asset Management Team Leader, Hamish Harding, champions Council’s modern approach to sewer pipe inspections. The Manawatū District has a 163km gravity sewer pipe network, and as the network ages, Council examines the structural grade to ensure the pipes are fit for purpose. Using CCTV camera systems to inspect our network, it’s a preventative approach to identify potential issues, such as sewage overflows, before they arise.

Actioned by MDC’s contractors, the CCTV camera system moves down the pipe, taking footage to be uploaded and analysed by a specialised AI system. Hamish Harding presented images of pipes where the AI tool identified issues, including tree roots pulling pipe joints apart, corroded pipes and even pipes with fibre (internet) lines punctured through. The AI system identifies faults and offers recommendations, removing barriers such as having to dig up the pipes, and frees up staff time to focus on the work that is required.

Council is committed to covering at least 10% of the sewerage pipe network annually. With the introduction of the AI technology, increased efficiency is expected to result in more than 30% of the network being inspected by the end of the contract.

Thanks to Hamish Harding and the Infrastructure team, MDC are proud to be leading as New Zealand’s first council to use AI in sewer pipe network inspections. It’s a modern approach to increasing efficiency, prioritising excellence in local government and maintaining an environment to be proud of.