Ahmedabad: Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is set to enhance underwater rescue operations with the deployment of advanced robotic technology. The civic body has approved the purchase of the Deep Trekker Underwater ROV—a remote-controlled device capable of transmitting live underwater visuals to a handheld controller.

The ROV helps overcome challenges like poor visibility, strong currents, and contaminated waters, making it safer than traditional diver-based searches. The AMC standing committee cleared the proposal on Thursday, with a budget of ₹1 crore.

A successful trial of the robot took place on Fire Safety Day in the Sabarmati River. Equipped with 2000-lumen lights, the ROV can dive up to 200 meters and lift up to 100 kg. It can operate for about six hours on a single charge and starts functioning within 30 seconds. The system also beams 4K video and displays critical underwater data, such as depth, temperature, and orientation.

This tracker assists in conducting clear video inspections at challenging operational sites that may involve poisonous snakes, crocodiles, or dangerous underwater creatures, as well as sites with hazardous chemical waste. The product can function in salty or chemically contaminated water. Currently, the ROV is equipped with a sonar integration kit, enabling it to seamlessly combine sonar hardware and software.

Standing Committee Chairman Devang Dani said the ROV will aid in swift responses during accidents along the 11-km stretch of the Sabarmati Riverfront, which attracts thousands of visitors daily.

Key Features of ROV Deep Trekker DTG3:

Rated for 200m (656 ft) depth:
This enables operations in almost every river and dam across the country. It can also be helpful in rescue/search missions at significant distances from the shoreline.

Strong tether (can lift up to 100 kg):
The tether attached to the DTG3 is extremely strong and can retrieve objects weighing up to 100 kg with ease, making it valuable in recovery missions.

2000 lumens lights:
High-lumen lights improve visibility in deep water. Typically, nighttime operations pose risks to divers, but with 2000 lumens lighting, clear video visuals are possible even at night—enabling safe operations without risking human life.

Short recharge time, long operating time:
The battery recharge time is just 1.5 hours, and once charged, the ROV can function underwater for about 6–8 hours, supporting prolonged missions with complete autonomy.

Handheld controller:
Offers high-definition and bright display for a portable yet premium viewing experience. For larger audiences, an HDMI-out port connects to bigger monitors. It includes Ethernet, SD, and USB ports. Video and photos can be recorded on an SD card, which is easily removable. On-screen displays show heading, depth, water temperature, pitch, roll, camera angle, and battery level.

Operating temperature: -10°C to 50°C:
Can withstand extreme temperatures and operate in all seasons and environments.

Depth Hold Mode:
The ROV can automatically maintain a preset depth according to site requirements.

Camera lock and movement:
The camera’s viewing angle can be locked for specific search operations, and it rotates up to 270°. This allows for extensive visual coverage of the surroundings.

Pitch Lock:
Users can lock the ROV’s pitch at a specific desired angle. Its patented pitch system allows unmatched flexibility, achieving 360-degree movement using just two thrusters.

Durable body:
The DTG3 is made of die-cast aluminum, offering high durability in both fresh and salty water.

Uniquely portable:
Internal lithium-ion batteries in the ROV and controller eliminate the need to run power down the tether, reducing strain and removing the need for generators at the dive site.

Low maintenance cost:
After a dive in saltwater, simply rinse with freshwater and keep the battery charged. No regular greasing or part replacement needed, ensuring low maintenance.

Grabber arm features:
Equipped with a 360-degree rotating grabber arm that opens up to 125mm (5″) and applies a locking force of 32 kg (70 lbs). Easy plug-and-play setup.

Sensor pack:
Includes water leak detection, internal temperature sensing, turn counter, motor overcurrent detection, motor stall detection, depth sensing, voltage sensing, gyroscope, and accelerometer—helping pilots operate with better situational awareness.

Globally reputed clientele:
Canadian Navy, US Navy, British Royal Navy, Norwegian Navy, Austrian Navy, Toronto Police, Washington State Police, and many others. DeshGujarat