In a major step towards enhancing beach safety during the monsoon, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will deploy advanced drone-based remote-controlled life buoys at six prominent beaches in Mumbai. These high-tech devices, imported from Turkey, aim to prevent drowning incidents and improve rescue operations.
Mumbai Fire Brigade Chief Ravindra Ambulgekar stated that the drone-operated life buoy will function via remote control and is capable of rescuing a person weighing up to 180 kilograms from up to one kilometer into the sea. The device can travel at a speed of 18 km per hour.
Ambulgekar emphasized that with the introduction of these drone life buoys, lifeguards will no longer need to enter deep waters for rescue operations. For the first time, remote-controlled life-saving devices will be deployed on beaches during the monsoon season.
The devices will be stationed at Girgaon Chowpatty, Dadar Shivaji Park Beach, Juhu, Versova, Aksa (Malad), and Gorai beaches. These robotic life-saving systems will significantly enhance rapid response during emergencies and can deliver immediate assistance to those in danger.
Currently, lifeguards are stationed at these beaches, and the new drone-based life buoys will work alongside them. In the event of someone drowning, the device can be quickly sent via remote control to the person in distress and bring them safely back to shore.
These drones will also be used during major festivals like Ganeshotsav, Navratri, and Dussehra, particularly during idol immersion events, to ensure public safety at the beaches.
