The Drone-Based Intelligent Buried Object Detection (DIBOD) System has been deployed in Mana to aid in the search for four missing workers trapped under the snow following the recent avalanche. The system, which was previously used in Wayanad to detect human presence beneath the earth’s surface, is expected to significantly enhance the ongoing rescue efforts.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) airlifted the DIBOD system along with six technicians from Hindon to Dehradun using a Dornier aircraft. From there, an Mi-17 helicopter transported the equipment to Joshimath, where it will now be deployed at the avalanche site. The DIBOD system works by using drone-mounted ground-penetrating radar and thermal imaging technology to detect signs of life or buried objects beneath layers of snow, ice, or debris. Its ability to scan deep into the surface with high accuracy makes it a critical tool in time-sensitive rescue missions.
The latest update from the district administration confirmed that one of the initially reported missing workers, Sunil Kumar, had safely reached home before the avalanche. This has revised the total number of affected workers from 55 to 54, with four individuals still unaccounted for. Search teams are focusing their efforts using eight helicopters—five from the Army, two from the Air Force, and one civil helicopter hired by the Army—to evacuate the rescued personnel to the Military Hospital in Joshimath for treatment.
In addition to the DIBOD system, multiple advanced technologies and rescue teams have been deployed. The Army is utilizing a UAV, five quadcopters, and three mini RPA drones to scan the avalanche zone. An NDRF team of 17 personnel has arrived in Mana to assist with the search, while two members from the Tiranga Mountain Rescue Team and an avalanche rescue dog, Robin, are actively engaged in locating the missing workers.
The operation continues under the supervision of senior military officers, with coordinated efforts from the Indian Army, the IAF, NDRF, and other agencies. The deployment of the DIBOD system marks a significant advancement in search-and-rescue technology, increasing the chances of locating the missing workers in the challenging terrain of Mana.
