Dialog Axiata has unveiled Sri Lanka’s first 5G-enabled autonomous water-surface cleaning robot, developed in partnership with the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA). Combining 5G connectivity, AI, and robotics, the device is designed to remove floating waste from lakes, rivers, and canals while monitoring environmental conditions in real time.
Powered by a carbon-neutral electric system, the robot can collect up to 50 kilograms of debris per mission and clean 50–100 acres of surface water. It uses onboard AI for garbage detection, obstacle avoidance, and centimetre-level positioning. Dialog’s 5G network enables high-definition real-time video streaming and allows operators to control the robot remotely from anywhere in the country.
Dialog says the innovation demonstrates how 5G can support environmental stewardship beyond traditional connectivity. Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi described the project as a model for cross-sector collaboration to protect waterways.
Although 5G in Sri Lanka remains in the trial phase, interest is rapidly accelerating. Dialog and SLT-Mobitel have been testing 5G since 2018, while awaiting the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) to release commercial 5G spectrum. The regulator began the auction process in October, with final bidders to be confirmed on November 24 and the auction to conclude on December 15.
