DRDO's ROV Daksh employed in rescue operation at Uttarkashi Tunnel
- In Reports
- 06:43 PM, Nov 20, 2023
- Myind Staff
Rescue operations are ongoing at the site of the Uttarakhand tunnel collapse in Uttarkashi district. The Defence Research Development Organisation's robotics team is aiding authorities in evacuating 41 workers stranded inside the partially collapsed tunnel. Utilizing the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) Daksh, designed for a motorized pan-tilt platform, the team is navigating the challenging terrain to facilitate the evacuation of individuals in distress.
According to the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO), the Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) Daksh is a versatile tool designed for various purposes. It is utilized in detecting and managing improvised explosive devices (IEDs), surveying nuclear and chemical contamination, and handling hazardous objects.
Equipped with ladder climbing abilities, the ROV Daksh can operate continuously for three hours, covering distances ranging from 100 to 500 meters. Its applications extend to serving bomb disposal units (BDU) of the army, police, and paramilitary forces, providing crucial assistance in handling IEDs and other dangerous substances.
The ROV Daksh is characterized by a motorized pan-tilt platform, allowing remote control within a range of 500 meters. This feature enhances its utility in navigating various terrains and carrying out specific tasks related to bomb disposal and hazardous materials management.
The manipulator arm of the ROV Daksh demonstrates the capability to handle hazardous objects, supporting weights of up to 20kg from a distance of 2.5 meters and 9kg from 4 meters away. Notably, Daksh exhibits its proficiency in climbing stairs and maneuvering steep slopes, aided by durable rubber wheels designed to withstand blast impacts.
With a capacity for continuous operation lasting three hours on a full charge, Daksh can tow suspicious platforms and is equipped with a range of features. These include multiple cameras, tools for handling improvised explosive devices (IEDs), nuclear biological chemical (NBC) reconnaissance systems, a master control station (MCS), and a shotgun.
Transported alongside the MCS, the ROV Daksh utilizes a specially designed carrier vehicle for deployment and mobility, ensuring its accessibility in diverse terrains and operational scenarios.
In the ongoing rescue efforts at the tunnel collapse site in Uttarkashi, the trapped workers have been receiving essential supplies through a 4-inch compressor pipeline. The provisions include items such as chickpeas, puffed rice, dry fruits, and medications, providing vital sustenance to those awaiting evacuation.
NHIDCL is installing a new 6-inch food supply pipeline at the Uttarkashi tunnel collapse site, having completed drilling 39 out of 60 meters. RVNL, with BRO's support, is working on a separate vertical pipeline for essential supplies. THDC is starting micro tunneling from Barkot, while SJVNL will conduct vertical drilling for the rescue. Equipment from Gujarat and Odisha has been mobilized to aid these operations.
The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has commenced preliminary work for vertical drilling from the Barkot end. Concurrently, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is actively engaged in constructing an access road to facilitate the mobilization of machinery for ONGC and SJVNL.
Image source: ANI
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