To address the risks posed by Hong Kong’s ageing water pipe network, the Water Supplies Department (WSD) of the HKSAR Government is leveraging smart technologies to detect leaks and navigate the city’s complex infrastructure. In partnership with PolyU and Shenzhen Bwell Technology Co. Ltd., WSD has established the Pipeline Robots Joint Laboratory, dedicated to developing advanced pipeline robotics for local water mains inspection.

The joint laboratory’s main goal is to independently develop multifunctional pipeline robotics technologies, equipped with acoustic sensors, high-definition cameras, and positioning instruments. The robot, named Intelligent Pipescope, is designed to assess the internal conditions of pressurised water mains. It will utilise artificial intelligence to analyse relevant data to address Hong Kong’s unique challenges, such as variations in materials, high water pressure, and numerous bends and branches.

PolyU and WSD will further refine the Intelligent Pipescope at Q-Leak, the underground water mains leak detection training centre, to ensure its effective use in Hong Kong's intricate water pipe network. WSD believes that the unique complexity of the city’s water supply network will serve as an ideal testing platform, facilitating the entry of Mainland pipeline robotics technologies into international markets and strengthening Hong Kong's position as a bridge between the Mainland and the world.

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between WSD, PolyU, and Shenzhen Bwell Technology Co. Ltd. to jointly advance smart robotics technologies.

Mr Roger Wong, Director of WSD, stated that the collaboration will accelerate the development of robots capable of operating in diverse pipeline conditions, enabling highly accurate inspections, thus reducing the risk of pipe bursts and leaks, and potentially extending to monitoring water quality. He hopes that by applying new technology, the goal of reducing the leakage rate to below 10% by 2030 can be achieved.

Looking ahead, this partnership aims to transform pipeline inspections in Hong Kong through cutting-edge robotics, while reinforcing PolyU’s commitment to knowledge transfer and technological innovation that create positive societal impact.