Kolkata Police Enhance Underwater Rescue with Cutting-Edge Tech

Kolkata Police are shifting from water drones to an advanced underwater communication system to improve rescue operations in the Ganga river. Due to turbid waters affecting drone visibility, the new system will aid divers with uninterrupted communication. A significant investment in equipment aims to boost underwater rescue capabilities.

The Kolkata Police are turning away from water drones in favor of a sophisticated underwater communication system to tackle the challenges posed by the murky waters of the Ganga. A senior officer disclosed the shift in strategy on Monday, citing the failure of drones to capture clear video footage in turbid water.

Officers have tested drones at multiple locations along the Ganga, but the sediment-laden water impaired visibility, questioning the technology's effectiveness for rescuing operations. As a result, the police are prioritizing an advanced communication system for divers from the Disaster Management Group (DMG), enabling constant contact with shore personnel.

This comprehensive upgrade, costing around Rs 6 crore, includes diving suits, rubber boats, and hydraulic cutters to enhance the force's emergency response capacity. Bright orange floating rings and additional life jackets are also part of the acquisition, underscoring a serious commitment to improving underwater rescue efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)