Remote-Operated Robotic Watercraft Demonstrated in Palghar to Boost Disaster Rescue

A live demonstration of a Remote-Operated Robotic Watercraft was conducted in Maharashtra's Palghar district to strengthen disaster management and make water rescue operations safer and more technology-driven, officials said on Thursday.

Palghar Collector and District Disaster Management Authority chairperson Indu Rani Jakhar said the battery-operated robotic watercraft has been designed to help rescue teams reach stranded or distressed people in water without requiring rescuers to immediately enter potentially hazardous conditions.

The technology is expected to reduce risks to emergency responders operating in fast-flowing rivers, floodwaters and reservoirs, particularly during the monsoon season.

The first trial was conducted at around 11 am near Maswan Bridge on the Surya River, in the presence of state disaster management officials, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, the Fire Brigade and other emergency services. A second demonstration was held at Ganesh Kund at 4 pm.

The battery-powered craft was tested in flowing river conditions to assess its manoeuvrability and remote deployment capabilities. The trials were aimed at evaluating how effectively the equipment could be used during emergency situations where conventional rescue operations may pose risks to personnel.

Jakhar highlighted the importance of such technology for Palghar, a geographically diverse district that experiences heavy monsoon rainfall, seasonal flooding and water-related emergencies due to its network of rivers, creeks and extensive coastline.

The initiative comes as the Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority prepares to distribute advanced rescue crafts across districts. Following the successful demonstration, Palghar is expected to be considered a priority for allocation due to its vulnerability to water-related disasters.

The adoption of modern rescue technologies is expected to complement existing NDRF and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) resources, improve emergency response times and strengthen the district's preparedness for future disasters.