An unusual blockage, threatening to cause significant disruption to the local community, was discovered under the streets of Folkestone with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). A massive fatberg, an accumulation of congealed fats, oils, and non-flushable items, was found thanks to an electronic sewer monitoring system.
The system, operated by Southern Water, uses over 34,000 radar sensors to constantly monitor sewer levels. In Chalcroft Road, Folkestone, the AI-powered monitors detected an unusual build-up of wastewater, indicating a potential blockage. When a crew was dispatched to the site, they were shocked to find the cause of the blockage was a discarded dumbbell gym weight.
According to Daniel McElhinney, Proactive Operations Control Manager at Southern Water, the AI system is highly effective. “The AI machines learn normal sewer behaviours and can tell the difference between morning and evening rushes, rain in the system, and a blockage forming,” he said.
This proactive approach allows the company to spot hundreds of potential blockages before they cause major issues like internal flooding, where sewage can back up into homes. Southern Water reminds the public that most suburban sewers are only the diameter of an orange. They urge customers to only flush the “three P’s” down the toilet: pee, paper, and poo. All other items, including sanitary products, wet wipes, and other non-flushable materials, should be disposed of in the bin to prevent the formation of more fatbergs.