One early project was a safety retrofit for low-head dams, which are notorious for causing drowning accidents.

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In his Google blog post, Mr Thrun - professor of computer science and electrical engineering at Stanford University - insisted that safety was the "first priority" in the project.

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As such, the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) added platform safety doors to all of its 84 stations, finishing the multi-year construction project in 2011.

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Naturally the project also aims to improve traffic safety, reduce environmental impact and - thanks to smooth speed control - cut the risk of traffic tailbacks.

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Project bosses said their safety checks showed more work is required on the complex 2, 000-tonne structure.

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The Safe Stoves project shows a virtuous circle in action, thanks to technology -- environmental protection, improved safety for women, access to clean energy for the poor, enhanced climate security.

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