GP-DRASTI Initiative

April 7, 2025

Recently, the Gujarat Police announced the launch of the GP-DRASTI initiative. This project aims to enhance policing through drone technology. The initiative seeks to reduce response times to incidents and improve overall public safety. With recent incidents of gang violence, the need for faster and more efficient policing methods has become critical.

Purpose of GP-DRASTI

The primary goal of the GP-DRASTI initiative is to improve the speed of police responses. Drones will be deployed to crime scenes alongside traditional PCR vans. This dual-response system aims to ensure that officers can assess situations quickly and deploy necessary forces.

Implementation Phases

The project will roll out in phases. Initially, it will cover 33 police stations across four major cities – Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot. The first phase will see the deployment of eight drones in Ahmedabad. Further expansions will occur as more drones are procured.

Pilot Project Results

A pilot project conducted in Surat and Ahmedabad demonstrated the effectiveness of drones. Drones reached incidents in less than half the time taken by PCR vans. This reduction in response time marks the potential of drone technology in emergency situations.

Specifications and Operations

The drones are quadcopters with an operational ceiling of 120 metres. They can fly for up to 45 minutes and have a control range of 4 km. Equipped with high-definition cameras and night vision, they can capture clear footage in various conditions. This capability is crucial for evidence gathering and monitoring public safety.

Training and Personnel

A training programme has been established for police personnel. Initially, 16 staff members from the eight police stations will receive training. Each drone will be operated by a two-person team, ensuring effective management and oversight.

Applications

The GP-DRASTI initiative is particularly focused on areas identified as hotspots for violent crimes. These include incidents of assault, rioting, and mob violence. The use of drones is expected to enhance surveillance and rapid response in these high-risk areas.

Integration with Existing Systems

Drones will work in conjunction with the existing police control room systems. When an incident is reported, both the drone and PCR van will be dispatched simultaneously. This integration aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency in emergency responses.

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