Mumbai: 

The lifebuoy robots were supposed to be used at popular beaches like Girgaum Chowpatty, Shivaji Park in Dadar, Juhu, Versova, Aksa, and Gorai. But the plan changed after Turkey spoke out against India’s actions following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22.

This decision was made after tensions rose between India and Turkey. Many people in India were upset because Turkey supported Pakistan. This happened after India carried out Operation Sindoor. After that, people called for a boycott of Turkish products, and trade ties between the two countries weakened. The Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, had criticized India’s action on terrorism in Pakistan and areas under Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The city may not get robotic lifebuoys anytime soon. The city’s civic body has cancelled its plan to buy these robots from Turkey. Earlier, the plan was to use these special rescue devices at six beaches in Mumbai, a civic official told PTI.

Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani confirmed that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has now dropped the plan to buy the robotic lifebuoys made in Turkey.

What are robotic lifebuoys?

These rescue devices can carry up to 200 kg and move up to 800 metres into the sea. They can reach speeds of 18 km/h. According to BMC officials who spoke to PTI, the robot can run for nearly an hour after one full charge.

After BMC made a deal with Turkey for these devices, many political parties strongly opposed the move. Leaders from BJP and Shiv Sena criticized the decision. They said India should support local companies instead of buying from foreign ones. They urged the BMC to promote the use of Indian-made rescue equipment.

These robotic lifebuoys are designed to help lifeguards during emergencies in the water. They can be used in search and rescue work to save people from drowning. Each robot has two water jets and comes with a 10,000 mAh rechargeable battery.

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