Drones, while having HD cameras and fun features to play with, are actually saving lives around the world. Those who see a drone for sale at a tech store may only think of them as mere recreational toys. In the right hands however, their capabilities are endless.
Search and Rescue workers can use these same recreational drones to help them in the field. With just a camera and some elevation, they can scan large areas for their targets. These drones have led to more lives saved at faster times.
Zanzibar Map Project
A similar drone idea is being implemented in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Here, drones scout large areas not to locate missing people, but to create maps. Yes, it seems creating an accurate map can be difficult when the terrain and tech availability are obstacles. In Zanzibar, especially in the extremely remote areas, maps can be inaccurate, if even existent. This makes it hard for people to navigate through the nearby regions. Visitors have it harder, especially those who deliver goods and medicine to the farther corners of the area. Building houses and even communities are also a problem.
When it comes to structure building, it can be difficult to assess the plot of land available. Those with an aerial view can more easily see if the spot on the area is the most efficient choice. Perks include being able to see which areas are landslide prone, flood-sensitive, or even out of reach.
Using a drone, pieces of the map fill up. Think of it as solving a jigsaw puzzle – small pieces connect, and you can see the big picture forming. In time, after you solve the small parts, you get to see the completed result. That is the end goal of this drone project – to create an accurate map of the areas in Zanzibar. With an accurate map at their disposal, they can hopefully create a better, more efficient network for travel.
