St. Petersburg has launched a new initiative called Gorodovoy, deploying eight autonomous vehicles to patrol the city and scan buildings for hazardous icicles. The system, which leverages AI technology, is designed to enhance public safety by identifying potential risks during winter months. City officials have emphasized that the project is part of a broader effort to modernize urban infrastructure and improve emergency response capabilities.
The Gorodovoy system utilizes advanced scanning technology to detect ice formations that could pose a threat to pedestrians and vehicles. By proactively identifying and addressing these hazards, the city aims to reduce the number of accidents and injuries caused by falling icicles. Officials have also noted that the initiative represents a significant investment in smart city technology, which is expected to serve as a model for other urban centers facing similar challenges.
City leaders have expressed confidence that the AI patrols will provide a more efficient and reliable solution compared to traditional methods of icicle removal. The project has been met with mixed reactions from residents, with some welcoming the innovation and others raising concerns about privacy and the potential for technology to be misused in the future.