This research presents an innovative, low-cost remote operated water cleaning robot (RO-WCR) designed to combat surface-level pollution in water bodies. The robot targets a diverse range of pollutants, including plastic waste, glass debris, floating biomass, algae, common duckweed, and invasive aquatic plants such as water hyacinth. Integrating mechanical, environmental, and electronic engineering principles, the robot efficiently navigates water surfaces, collecting pollutants with minimal disruption to the aquatic ecosystem. The paper outlines the robot’s design, propulsion system, and surface-mounted waste collection mechanism, emphasizing its lightweight, solar-powered structure that ensures energy efficiency and mobility. Field trials demonstrate the robot’s effectiveness in improving water quality, supporting aquatic biodiversity, and mitigating environmental degradation in inland water bodies like rivers and lakes. Additionally, the robot is equipped with a real-time vision system that provides continuous visual feedback to the operator, enhancing precision and operational control. It reached a maximum speed of 0.398 m/s and the maximum drag turns out to be 2.048 N. This system exemplifies a scalable and sustainable approach to water conservation and highlights the potential of technology-driven solutions in global environmental preservation efforts.