Use drones to monitor infrastructure projects: PM Narendra Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked officials to use modern technology , including geo-tagging and use of UAVs and drones for rigorous monitoring of infrastructure projects.

The PM also called for completion of the works within strict timelines. The directive came last week during a marathon review meeting taken by the PM of key infrastructure sectors including roads, railways, airports, ports, digital, and coal. At the meeting, Niti Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant made a detailed presentation about progress made in several areas and infrastructure sectors which the Aayog is monitoring online.

The key issue, debated in the meeting, was how to further strengthen monitoring and evaluation mechanism to ensure projects are completed on time and to ensure quality of construction by using the latest technology . An official said that the PM directed that UAVs and drones be used to monitor highway projects and also to check illegal mining in coal sector.

During a discussion on construction of rural roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Modi sought efficient and stringent monitoring of rural road construction ensuring quality . Modi emphasised use of space technology -GIS in addition to technologies already being used, such as the `Meri Sadak' App. The PM was informed that around 57,000 complaints were received and only 70 are pending.

During the review, the PM asked Niti Aayog to examine global standards in the application of technology for infrastructure creation, and their feasibility in India.