But in recent years, a technological evolution is taking wing: drones are transforming the way authorities respond to emergencies, saving lives and precious time.

Equipped with high-resolution cameras, thermal imaging sensors, and advanced communication systems, drones offer a bird’s-eye view of disaster zones and remote areas inaccessible to humans. During the 2018 Kerala floods, for instance, drones equipped with night vision cameras helped locate stranded survivors on rooftops and in submerged areas, significantly expediting rescue efforts. As Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan aptly stated, “The use of drones in flood relief operations has yielded positive results. It is a new technology that can be effectively utilized in disaster management.” (The Hindu, August 2018).

Speed and Scale: Search areas that traditionally could take days to scour can be covered by drones in mere minutes. During the 2021 Uttarakhand floods, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) utilized drones to assess damage and identify locations requiring critical aid, leading to faster allocation of resources and quicker rescues.

Precision and Penetration: Drones equipped with thermal sensors can detect body heat, a crucial advantage in locating stranded individuals, especially in the dark or under dense foliage. In 2022, a missing mountaineer in Assam was located and rescued within hours thanks to a drone-mounted thermal camera, highlighting the technology’s life-saving potential.

Beyond Search: Drones are not just eyes in the sky; they can be equipped with communication relays, loudspeakers, and even first-aid kits. During the Nepal earthquake in 2015, drones were used to establish communication links in devastated areas, restoring vital connections and facilitating rescue coordination.

However, challenges remain. Weather conditions, regulatory hurdles, and limited battery life can hamper drone operations. The Indian government is taking steps to address these issues, streamlining regulations and encouraging the development of longer-range, weather-resistant drones.

Looking ahead, the future of SAR in India is undeniably intertwined with drones. As Amit Gupta, CEO of a leading drone manufacturing company, states, “Drones are not just a technological marvel; they are a lifeline. They can reach where humans cannot, and in doing so, they can save lives.” (Economic Times, July 2023).

With continued investment and innovation, drones hold the potential to revolutionize rescue efforts across India, ensuring faster, more efficient, and ultimately, life-saving interventions in times of crisis. The skies above India are no longer just a realm of observation; they are becoming a platform for swift, targeted assistance, ensuring that even in the face of disaster, hope can take flight.