By Shah Zainab
SRINAGAR: Kashmir has acquired a state-of-the-art walking excavator, the Menzi Muck, to enhance disaster response and tackle challenging terrains. Procured by the Mechanical Engineering Department of Srinagar from Switzerland, the machine is designed to improve efficiency during emergencies.
The Menzi Muck is no ordinary excavator. With its spider-like ability to navigate steep slopes, rocky landscapes, and roadless areas, it is uniquely suited for disaster rescue, construction, snow clearance, and firefighting. It can extend itself up to three floors high to rescue individuals during fires and retrieve vehicles from gorges. By attaching various tools, it can perform a wide range of tasks, making it a versatile asset.
The decision to acquire the Menzi Muck was driven by a tragic incident in 2022. During the annual Yatra in Baaltal, a cloudburst caused significant destruction, blocking roads and claiming lives. The lack of machinery capable of accessing the area highlighted the need for a more adaptable solution.
Irfanul Hassan, Assistant Executive Engineer of the Mechanical Engineering Department in Srinagar, explained, “The 2022 cloudburst during the Yatra caused massive damage. Roads were blocked, and lives were lost because no machine could reach the affected area. This tragedy prompted officials to seek a machine capable of operating without relying on roads. The Menzi Muck was the answer.”
The machine was purchased under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). Hassan elaborated on its capabilities, stating, “This machine does not require clear roads to operate. Its four tires can lift, allowing it to use its jaws to crawl on any surface for stability. It is a game-changer for disaster response in Kashmir.”
The Menzi Muck is now operational in Kashmir, where it will primarily be deployed in disaster-prone areas during cloudbursts, landslides, and other emergencies. Its ability to clear snow and assist in fire rescue further enhances its utility. By functioning in inaccessible terrains, it is expected to save lives and minimise damage during disasters.
The introduction of the Menzi Muck marks a significant advancement for Kashmir. Beyond disaster response, it will streamline construction in challenging environments. With this machine, Kashmir is better equipped to manage emergencies and natural calamities, ensuring a safer and more resilient future.
