Drone News

Saving Lives from the Sky: Drones Guard Andhra’s Coastline

Posted by

Pradipta V Mukherjee

August 7, 2025

On August 7, 2025

The Bapatla district police in Andhra Pradesh have implemented drone technology to monitor beaches and stop drownings, which is a revolutionary step to improve coastal safety. Already, the initiative is saving lives and making a once-vulnerable coastline a safer place for both residents and visitors.

Since drone surveillance was put in place, the number of fatalities along Bapatla’s coastline—which includes well-known beaches like Vedarevu, Ramapuram, and Suryalanka—has significantly decreased. Before drones were used, the district had 15 drowning deaths in 2024. However, since aerial monitoring was implemented in January, 15 people have been successfully rescued, and the number of fatalities at Vedarevu and Ramapuram beaches has dropped to just two. This is a strong indication of the real-time impact drones are having.

Currently, 15 police officers throughout the district have received drone operations training. Operating from a specialized control room at the Chirala I Town Police Station, four drones have been specially assigned for beach surveillance. The control room is supported by extra supervision from the district headquarters in Bapatla and receives real-time drone feeds. Private drones are also used to augment the police’s aerial monitoring capabilities during significant public events and religious gatherings.

The efficacy of the system was demonstrated in a recent incident when Chirala Rural SI Chandrasekhar’s drone recorded three young people fighting against strong waves. During a pilgrimage that involved more than 1,000 people from Kolalapudi village, the drone promptly transmitted the alert, allowing for prompt action and rescue.

Drone surveillance is a component of a larger, multi-layered beach safety protocol being implemented throughout Bapatla, according to Superintendent of Police Tushar Dudi. Aside from aerial surveillance, watchtowers have been built, four rescue boats are available for emergencies, and 118 CCTV cameras have been placed along the shore. Red flags indicate danger areas, and visitors can receive real-time alerts and safety instructions over loudspeakers. To maintain total vigilance, foot patrols are still in place on the ground.

Although there have been notable advancements in safety infrastructure, the district police stressed that public cooperation is still crucial. Visitors are advised to abide by safety precautions, stay out of prohibited zones, and not swim while intoxicated. To maintain public safety, authorities have made it clear that violators will face severe legal repercussions.

Drones are being incorporated into the district’s broader policing initiatives in addition to beach safety. These days, they are employed for traffic control, detecting drunk driving, and monitoring illegal gatherings or antisocial behavior. The technology serves as a deterrent to potential violators and enables quick response in high-risk areas.

The initiative has been well received by both locals and visitors, who have called it a much-needed move toward proactive public safety. Bapatla is quickly becoming a model for tech-driven policing in India, with trained teams on standby and drones patrolling the skies. The district’s creative use of drone technology serves as an example of how focused investment in cutting-edge equipment can directly save lives and boost public trust.

Other districts in Andhra Pradesh and the nation may soon try to follow Bapatla’s example of successfully incorporating drone surveillance into routine policing, particularly in places where real-time monitoring is essential and human resources are scarce.

Pradipta V Mukherjee

CEO, Mavdrones

Pradipta V Mukherjee is the visionary CEO of Mavdrones & Drone Pathshala, driving innovation and growth in the drone industry. With a passion for advanced technology, he leads the company's strategic direction, ensuring Mavdrones stays at the forefront of drone solutions. Under his leadership, Mavdrones has achieved remarkable success, including winning the 'Best Innovation and Technology in Drone Industry' award from ASSOCHAM. Pradipta is committed to revolutionizing the industry through advanced UAV technology, fostering a culture of excellence and forward-thinking within the organization.