DUBAI // A 125cm-robot rescuer is the latest addition to Dubai Municipality’s safety system for the emirate’s beaches.
The robot, which is shaped like a boat and manoeuvred by remote control, can reach a speed of 35kph or approximately 12 times the speed of a human.
The goal behind launching this type of technology was to keep beachgoers safe, said Alya Al Harmoudi, director of the Environment Department at Dubai Municipality.
“The move is also in response to the Dubai government directives to keep up with the latest technologies and innovations,” she said, adding: “It was to ensure that all the necessary requirements and precautions are in place to enhance the rescue operations on the public beaches of Dubai.”
The device is fitted with an electric pump to facilitate movement and speed and travel up to a distance of 130km.
A Dubai Municipality source said the robot functions like a little speed boat, which a person in distress can hold on to to return to shore.
“It can travel really fast, faster than any human being can, and it can be controlled,” he said.
The device, weighing 11 kilograms and operated by recycled batteries, can withstand high waves and heavy currents, according to a Dubai Municipality statement, which said it can pull four to five people at the same time.
Once fully charged - which takes 45-90 minutes - it can complete at least 30 rescue operations.
dmoukhallati@thenational.ae
