Drone Technology Powers Rescue, Relief Operations in Flood-Hit Dholka

As floodwaters inundated parts of Dholka following heavy rainfall in Ahmedabad district, drone technology reportedly played a crucial role in rescue and relief efforts, helping authorities locate stranded residents and deliver essential supplies in areas cut off by rising waters.

As per reports, a specialised drone rescue team from Mehsana-based startup Prime UAV was deployed to assist the administration after children and local residents became stranded in flood-hit localities and schools.

Drone team reaches inaccessible flood-hit areas

According to officials, roads leading to several affected areas were submerged, making access by conventional vehicles impossible. The Prime UAV team reportedly transported its drone systems using tractors and boats before beginning aerial operations in coordination with local authorities and rescue agencies.

GPS tracking and aerial surveillance aid rescue

As per reports, the drone team carried out continuous surveillance during both day and night to monitor flood conditions and identify stranded people.

The drones were reportedly used to:

• Track the GPS locations of stranded children and residents.
• Conduct real-time aerial surveillance of flooded roads and residential areas.
• Guide rescue boats and emergency teams, including local responders, towards affected locations.

Food and drinking water delivered by drone

Officials said specially designed payload compartments attached to the drones were used to transport food packets and drinking water to locations that rescue boats and tractors could not immediately reach.

The aerial deliveries reportedly ensured that essential supplies reached people stranded in inaccessible areas while rescue operations were underway.

Startup volunteers services during emergency

Prime UAV, a startup recognised by the Centre's Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), reportedly offers drone-based services for agriculture, forest management, mosquito control, surveillance and mapping.

As per reports, the company voluntarily deployed its technology for the Dholka flood response without any commercial consideration, describing the operation as part of its social responsibility.

Prime UAV Founder and CEO Pradeep Patel reportedly said the true success of technology lies in its ability to save lives during emergencies. He added that the team immediately mobilised after receiving information about children and residents trapped in floodwaters and expressed pride in contributing to the humanitarian effort.

Technology strengthens disaster response

Officials said the use of drones significantly improved the speed and efficiency of rescue operations by enabling rapid assessment of flood conditions, locating stranded people and delivering relief materials in difficult terrain.

As per reports, the operation highlights the growing role of drone technology in supporting disaster management and emergency response during natural calamities.