BMC Cancels Procurement of Turkish Robotic Lifebuoys Following Political Tensions

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided not to proceed with its plan to purchase robotic lifebuoys from Turkey. This decision follows criticism in India over Turkey's support for Pakistan. The robotic devices were intended for use on several Mumbai beaches, including Girgaum Chowpatty, Shivaji Park Dadar, Juhu, Versova, Aksa, and Gorai.

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Municipal commissioner Bhushan Gagrani confirmed the cancellation of the procurement plan. The robotic lifebuoys were designed to assist lifeguards in rescuing individuals from drowning. Each unit featured dual water jets, a 10,000 mAh rechargeable battery, and could carry up to 200 kg. These machines could travel 800 metres into the sea at speeds reaching 18 km/h and operate for about an hour.

Political Backlash Over Procurement

The decision to cancel the purchase comes after Turkey's diplomatic and military support for Pakistan during recent tensions between India and Pakistan. This support led to significant backlash from political parties in India. Leaders from the ruling BJP and its ally Shiv Sena questioned why the BMC was considering foreign equipment instead of supporting local alternatives.

Turkey's stance during Operation Sindoor, India's military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, intensified calls within India for a boycott of Turkish products. The civic body's initial plan faced criticism amid these broader domestic sentiments against Turkey.

Technical Specifications of Lifebuoys

The robotic lifebuoys were equipped with advanced features to aid in rescue operations. They included dual water jets for propulsion and a powerful rechargeable battery. With a capacity to carry up to 200 kg, these machines could cover significant distances at high speeds, making them suitable for emergency situations on busy beaches.

The cancellation reflects a growing preference for promoting indigenous solutions over foreign imports, especially when geopolitical tensions influence public sentiment. The BMC's decision aligns with broader national interests and addresses concerns raised by political leaders regarding reliance on foreign technology.

This move highlights the impact of international relations on local procurement decisions. It also underscores the importance of aligning civic projects with national priorities and public sentiment. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, such considerations are likely to play a crucial role in future procurement strategies.

With inputs from PTI