GPS Drones Boost Landslide Rescue: Kerala's High-Tech Initiative

Wayanad District employs GPS from drones and cell phones to enhance landslide rescue operations. District Collector Meghashree D R coordinates 40 teams across six zones, utilizing location data for efficient searches. As death toll rises, search efforts continue despite challenging conditions.

In an innovative step to streamline rescue operations, Wayanad District is using GPS coordinates gleaned from drones and cell phones to pinpoint critical areas after recent devastating landslides.

District Collector Meghashree D R outlined the high-tech initiative, detailing how 40 teams, supplemented by cadaver dogs and heavy machinery, are scouring six designated zones including Mundakkai and Chooralmala for survivors and remains.

The Collector emphasized the vital role of aerial drone photography and cell phone last location data in mapping out search hotspots, a method poised to expedite rescue efforts significantly amid challenging, waterlogged soil conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)