PRELIMS BITS:
Overview: The Government of India has launched an upgraded Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) Version 2, designed to improve search and rescue (SAR) operations in the Indian Ocean region.
Key Improvements:
- Enhanced Computation: SARAT now anchors search areas to the Last Known Position (LKP) for more accurate search definitions, moving away from the earlier approach based on minimum longitude.
- Digital Search Areas: Search areas are now digitally exportable, integrating seamlessly with rescue maps.
- Trajectory Visualization: Includes visualized individual and mean particle paths with colour-coded search regions and an LKP marker for better clarity.
Training and Capacity Building:
- INCOIS organized a national workshop to train personnel from the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
- Over 60 officers participated, enhancing their skills for SAR operations.
Continuous Improvement:
- Stakeholder feedback during SAR workshops aids in refining the tool.
- Regular demonstrations and lectures keep operational staff updated.
Future Plans:
- Improvements in surface current and wind predictions are underway.
- Assimilation of additional ocean observations and High-Frequency radar measurements will enhance coastal current accuracy.
- The Ministry of Earth Sciences aims to further boost SARAT’s precision for more effective rescue operations.