The framework for the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in state governance has almost been finalised and is set to roll out soon. Once implemented, Karnataka would be the first state to use UAS applications extensively in government departments. The final draft of the framework, a comprehensive one prepared by experts, has been cleared by the technical committee and will be placed before the state cabinet for approval. The framework looks to develop Karnataka as a major hub for development and manufacturing of the UAS technology. A couple of months ago, the government had decided to come up with a framework for the use of UAS or drones following recommendations by the Karnataka Knowledge Commission.The Commission had recommended that Karnataka must immediately take up a pilot-project demonstration of UAS for governance and that various sectors like agriculture, urban, water resources, mining may be considered. “The final report will be submitted to [the chief minister, among others] and once the cabinet approves it, we will have an official UAS for Karnataka,” Mr Gaurav Gupta, principal secretary, IT, BT and Science & Technology Department, told Mirror. “The idea is to perceive increased use of UAS applications in various departments, be it in agriculture to monitor or survey crops, in urban development for mapping and town planning, quick surveillance of traffic, monitoring crowds in large congregations like the Mahamastakabhisheka, which is to be held next year,” said Gupta. The framework would also contain guidelines on the dos and don’ts for operating the drones in public and private spaces. It includes tracking technologies to rein in rogue drones. “At present, there are some restrictions on the use of drones and where they can be operated. The framework will give a clear picture if it can be used in a wedding hall or an apartment space. We have to ensure that it does not infringe on the airspace or restricted areas,” Mr Gupta added. For drones to be operated legally, a Unique Identification Number (UIN) issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is mandatory. The DGCA guidelines further state that the operator shall intimate local administration, ATS unit (for operations at or above 200 feet above ground in uncontrolled airspace), Bureau of Civil Aviation Safety and the aerodrome operator (if applicable), before commencement and after termination of operation.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FRAMEWORK
* Encourage UAS applications in various government departments
* Encourage and support better design, development and manufacture of UAS technology.
* Develop Karnataka as a major hub for development and manufacturing of UAS technology.
Source: http://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/
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