Dubai: Dubai Municipality has launched robots to help save lives on public beaches in Dubai, a first such initiative in the Middle East.
The robot, which can reach a speed of 35kmph or approximately 12 times the speed of a human lifeguard, works by using remote control technology, said Dubai Municipality. The robot is about 125cm tall and can cover a distance of more than 130km.
The robots are designed to withstand the worst climatic conditions. They can be used in the event of high waves or heavy ocean currents that are difficult for the human lifeguard to conduct rescue operations. One robot is capable of saving four to five people at the same time, said Dubai Municipality.
The robot can float freely as it weighs only 11 kg and is operated by recycled batteries. When the battery is recharged fully, it is sufficient to complete thirty rescue. It takes from 45 to 90 minutes to recharge the batteries. The lifeguards can also use the robots to deal with the drowning cases at the beach or to rescue boats or jet skis.
Alya Al Harmoudi, Director of Environment Department at Dubai Municipality says that the introduction of the new type of technology bears witness to the Municipality's keenness on the safety and security of the beachgoers.
“The move is also in response to the Dubai government directives to keep up with the latest technologies and innovations in this area as well as to ensure that all the necessary requirements and precautions are in place to enhance the rescue operations on the public beaches of Dubai,” she said.
