Robots will help douse fires in Delhi: ‘Remote controlled, will save lives’

Explaining the features, officials said the robot is built using material similar to an Army tank and can resist fire, smoke, and heat. It is also equipped with a crawler belt above its tires, allowing it to move easily into congested places and gain access to hard-to-reach spots. A ventilation fan keeps the machine cool.

Delhi Fire Service director Atul Garg said, “Every robot is equipped with water pipes, and is controlled using a wireless remote. On reaching the site, the robot can extract smoke caused by the fire built up in the building through its ventilation system. These robots make use of high water pressure to douse the fire, spraying 2,400 litres in a minute. The spray installed in them emits small droplets and scatters it up to an area of 100 metres.”

After monitoring the results of the trial period, the government will purchase more such machines, said officials. (Express Photo)

The machines are also equipped with high-resolution cameras to show clear pictures of the fire. The government has also provided special training to firefighters to operate the robot. A separate SOP has also been prepared on how, when, and under which circumstances the fire can be controlled.

“For the first time, such robots have been introduced in the country with the ability to control fires remotely. These will prove to be major trouble-shooters for firefighters,” said Home Minister Satyendar Jain.