Delhi Police is now using drones to spread awareness, make announcements and monitor the compliance of lockdown norms by the residents of areas sealed in the city. The residents of Old Delhi observed such flying drones, on Thursday, with speakers reminding them to wear their masks before stepping out as it is mandatory in the city now. Further, the announcements were also made to inform the Police as soon as they know of someone who could possibly be infected with COVID-19.
Earlier, the police used PA systems attached to their jeeps for making public announcements. However, this time the speaker from the PA system was attached to the drones. Sanjay Bhatia, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) said, “The speaker from the PA system was attached to the drone and it was then released in the area. The official on the ground made announcements while controlling the drone. This is the first time for a drone to fly fitted with a PA system.”
According to the DCP, the five drones used in the area for surveillance and ensuring that the lockdown norms are being adhered were provided by Zomato, the online food delivery firm, as a part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Bhatia said, “The response from people was overwhelming. No one stepped out of their houses. The drones will be used as and when required for surveillance. In congested areas, the drones can reach where eyes can’t.”
Moreover, DK Gupta, DCP said that three drones were used for surveillance of three of the five areas sealed by the government. The areas include – Pratap Khand, Dilshad Garden and GTB Enclave, for surveillance and to ensure that residents do not violate the lockdown norms.
Gupta said that in the areas, 12 persons were found positive for COVID-19. “Ten teams are working 24×7 to ensure people follow sealing guidelines and 12 pickets have also been put up. FIRs have been registered against 14 people in the district for roaming around without wearing masks,” Gupta added.
Drones were also used for monitoring of city residents in order to ensure that the lockdown norms are being adhered to. As per the police, a total of 137 cases have been registered against persons for not wearing masks in different districts across the city and only one case was registered against a person in connection with Shab-e-baraat in Mehrauli area.
