As Bengaluru continues to battle severe waterlogging during rains, the BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike) is experimenting with new methods to tackle the city’s recurring monsoon chaos. After floating tenders to procure boats and life jackets, the civic body is now deploying drones to monitor flood-prone and rain-damaged zones.
In collaboration with the police department, BBMP has appointed nodal officers to oversee drone operations. These drones will survey affected areas during downpours, stream real-time footage to the BBMP control room, and help officials locate water accumulation zones, assess drainage paths, and coordinate rescue and water evacuation efforts efficiently.
While this tech-driven approach aims to improve response time and disaster mapping, it hasn’t sat well with many citizens. Residents have criticized the municipality for investing in boats and drones instead of addressing fundamental issues like potholes, clogged drains, and inadequate road infrastructure. BBMP’s repeated assurances after every monsoon have led to public frustration, with many viewing these measures as reactive rather than preventive.
Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar recently claimed that flooding issues have been resolved in 70% of the city, yet persistent waterlogging and traffic chaos continue to affect daily life. A recent 100 mm rainfall led to a 10-km traffic jam, underscoring the urgency for long-term infrastructure solutions.
While drones may provide valuable insights, citizens argue that ‘Brand Bengaluru’ needs ground-level improvements more than aerial monitoring.
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