The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has upgraded its Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) to a more advanced version, SARAT 2, to bolster the effectiveness of maritime rescue operations. Originally launched in 2016, SARAT has been a key resource for Indian agencies, including the Coast Guard, by providing accurate drift predictions for missing objects at sea.
Key Features of SARAT 2:
The upgraded tool offers:
- Enhanced Visuals: High-resolution, colour-coded search maps to quickly identify high-probability zones.
- Customization: Selection from 60 object types for tailored search operations.
- Accurate Drift Modeling: Incorporates advanced data on ocean currents, wind, and wave patterns to predict object drift.
Operational Impact:
SARAT 2 optimizes rescue missions by narrowing search areas, enabling quicker and more focused operations. By using environmental data and object-specific modeling, the tool ensures efficient use of resources and faster rescues, saving lives and reducing costs.
SARAT’s Background:
Introduced in 2016, SARAT was developed to assist in maritime search and rescue (SAR) operations. It uses environmental variables such as wind, currents, and waves to predict the movement of missing objects. SARAT 2 builds upon this foundation, integrating user feedback and technological advancements to improve accuracy and reliability.
SARAT’s Role in Indian SAR Operations:
As an indispensable tool, SARAT has strengthened the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard and other SAR agencies. It enhances operational efficiency by identifying the most probable search zones, making rescues faster and more effective.
Why It Matters:
This upgrade aligns with INCOIS’s mission to advance oceanographic tools under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, contributing to safer and more reliable maritime activities in India.
