Robotic lifebuoys coming to Mumbai beaches? Not so soon, BMC scraps plan amid fallout with Turkey
This decision comes in the wake of backlash over Turkey's role in supporting Pakistan and India-Turkey fallout post Operation Sindoor. Boycott Turkey goods calls were raised and trade relations strained between the two countries after Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's government criticised India's terror clampdown and strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir.
According to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, these bots were to be deployed at Girgaum Chowpatty, Shivaji Park Dadar, Juhu, Versova, Aksa and Gorai beaches. However, a change in plan was made after Turkey openly condemned India's action in response to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
Affirming the development related to procurement of robotic lifebuoys, Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani said that the civic body has scrapped the plan to procure robotic lifebuoys manufactured in Turkey.
Designed to assist lifeguards, the robotic lifebuoys would have been a part of search and rescue operation to save people from drowning.
Equipped with dual water jets, each unit of robotic lifebuoys possess a 10,000 mAh rechargeable battery. With a carriage capacity of 200 kg, these remotely-operated rescue machines can cover a distance of 800 metres into the sea at speeds up to 18 km/h. BMC officials further informed PTI that the bot can operate for about an hour after one charge.
Following the deal with the Eurasian country, the BMC faced strong criticism from political parties. BJP and Shiv Sena leaders had questioned and condemned the procurement of the machine from foreign supplier and had insisted on promoting indigenous production.
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