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Hong Kong deploys robots, smart sensors to avoid repeat of city’s worst flood on record

  • Drainage Services Department reveals smart sensors to collect data from stormwater drain manholes and robots to aid in underground pipeline inspections
  • ‘Flood prevention work will be reinforced in four areas, namely including early warning, emergency preparedness, response and recovery,’ department says

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The Drainage Services Department also unveiled a stormwater storage tank in Kwun Tong as part of efforts to manage floods. Photo: Sam Tsang

Hong Kong has deployed robots that monitor water levels and smart sensors as part of an hi-tech push to tackle the coming rainstorm season, after the city experienced its worst downpour on record last year.

The Drainage Services Department said on Thursday that 32 “LeMon Switch” sensors, which collect data from stormwater drain manholes, were deployed earlier this year to flood-prone areas such as Wong Tai Sin and Chai Wan.

More of the sensors would be installed across the city, with the technology alerting the department to spots in need of urgent drainage clearance, it added.

“Flood prevention work will be reinforced in four areas, namely including early warning, emergency preparedness, response and recovery,” Director of Drainage Services Ringo Mok Wing-cheong said.

“The application of more advanced and the latest technologies will enhance the department’s work efficiency and occupational safety.”

The department has also adopted the “Tumbler Inspection Ball Robot” to provide officers with stable and clear footage offering 360-degree panoramic views as they inspect underground pipelines.

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