One of the safest countries in the world, Singapore recently launched patrolling robots to thwart bad social behaviour on streets. Two such autonomous robots, named Xavier, fully-equipped with cameras and other surveillance tools were spotted in Toa Payoh, earlier this week.

The Home Team Science and Technology Agency of Singapore have introduced these robots to raise surveillance fine those flouting Covid-19 safety protocols. The team also aims to reduce other issues like improper bicycle parking, illegal hawking and smoking in prohibited areas with the help of robot patrolling in the country. While the trail has received a green signal for three weeks, Singapore aims to strengthen surveillance with modern technology.

Meanwhile, the autonomous robot Xavier is equipped with a 360-degree vision which is capable of scanning in the dark as well. These robots also feature pre-recorded messages like: 'Please do not smoke in prohibited areas such as covered walkways' to educate people on appropriate public behavior. Xavier is also equipped with real-time alerts (which are instantly sent to the command and control center) that are triggered when it detects any poor social behavior. While the main objective is to collect data to improve the system, the trial phase of these robots is being used to monitor, educate and raise awareness about the appropriate behavior in public.

Deployed in Toa Payoh, Xavier has been equipped with various kinds on sensors to enable it to navigate through the busy streets while avoiding obstructions like vehicles and pedestrians while patrolling. Meanwhile, the spokesperson from Home Team Science and Technology Agency also highlighted the point that the deployment of Xavier will also help the government to reduce the manpower required to patrol the streets in Singapore.

While Xavier is the first to patrol the streets, Singapore has deployed other robots like Matar, Swan, O-R3 and Spot to monitor water quality, promote the message of safe and social distancing and other activities in the past few months.