USDMA takes drone help in garnering info

Considering the disaster vulnerability of the State, the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) has also incorporated drones for collecting information from remote areas. The disaster management additional secretary Savin Bansal informed that at times it becomes difficult to collect correct information about the affected site in disaster scenarios. Drone technology can play an important role in such situations.

As directed by the USDMA, the district disaster management authorities are in the process of purchasing drones for use in collecting information about remote inaccessible areas. Procedure for the same is underway in the other districts. Further, with the help of Disaster Mitigation and Management Centre (DMMC), GIS mapping and listing of medical facilities, police set up and food and civil supply stores is also under progress. Bansal further informed that USDMA has accorded considerable importance to search, rescue and primary treatment in the mitigation of disasters with elaborate preparations also being made in this direction. Till date, a total of 15,300 persons in 612 Nyay Panchayats have undergone this training. During the monsoon, such trained persons form groups of five each and remain posted in sensitive areas and reach affected places when needed to conduct search and rescue operation.

He also informed the media about the various other measures being taken by the department to strengthen disaster mitigation in the state. The DMMC executive director Piyoosh Rautela was also among those present on the occasion.