Drones cut costs, improve infrastructure monitoring in cities: Experts

State governments are adopting drones to monitor large-scale projects, track road conditions, and oversee public utilities. Experts believe that the drones have cut inspection costs by 40% compared to traditional methods.Anil Verma, an urban infrastructure expert, said, "Drone-based monitoring enhances transparency and significantly lowers operational costs for city administrations."Ankit Sharma, an urban governance expert, said, "Drones provide real-time data, helping local bodies improve decision-making and manage public resources efficiently."Several municipalities are using drones to identify mosquito-breeding grounds and sanitation gaps, aiding in the fight against diseases like dengue. "Drones allow for faster detection of potential health hazards, which helps authorities respond quickly," said Meena Rao, a public health expert.Experts estimate that 300-500 Indian cities could adopt drone technology over the next decade, especially in tier-2 regions facing resource challenges.Kesowa, a drone technology company, has partnered with local governments to monitor large-scale projects. In collaboration with the New Town Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA), Kesowa’s drones have overseen Rs 2,000 crore worth of development with just a Rs 4 crore investment, saving time and resources.Ravi Kumar, a technology policy analyst, said, "Drones are transforming urban governance by improving efficiency and reducing operational costs."