ISRO’s Transponder Technology Protecting West Bengal’s Fishermen
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has taken a significant step to ensure the safety of deep-sea fishermen from West Bengal. The space agency has developed a Satellite-Based Maritime Safety Assistant System (SBMSAS), also known as the Transponder, which is being installed in trawlers to enhance communication, location tracking, and emergency response in treacherous waters.
The Transponder technology has been a game-changer for the fishermen, providing them with a high-tech safety lifeline that was previously unavailable. With the installation of this device in 300 trawlers, the fishermen now have a reliable means of communication, location tracking, and emergency response, which is crucial in the event of an emergency.
West Bengal is one of the states with the highest number of fishermen, with over 1.2 million people depending on fishing for their livelihood. The state’s coastline is prone to accidents, and the fishermen often venture into the open sea, putting them at risk of getting stranded or lost. The Transponder technology has been designed to address these concerns and provide a safer and more efficient way of fishing.
The Transponder is a compact device that is installed on the trawlers, which can send and receive signals to and from the SBMSAS satellite. The device is equipped with a GPS system, which tracks the location of the trawler in real-time. In the event of an emergency, the fishermen can send a distress signal to the authorities, who can respond quickly and effectively to rescue them.
The benefits of the Transponder technology are numerous. For one, it provides real-time location tracking, which enables the authorities to monitor the movement of the trawlers and respond quickly in the event of an emergency. The device also enables the fishermen to communicate with each other and with the authorities in real-time, which is critical in emergency situations.
The Transponder technology has also improved the overall efficiency of the fishing operations. With the ability to track the location of the trawlers, the fishermen can plan their routes more effectively and avoid areas with poor fishing conditions. The device also provides weather updates and forecasts, which enable the fishermen to make informed decisions about their fishing operations.
The installation of the Transponder technology has been a collaborative effort between ISRO, the West Bengal government, and the fishing community. The project was launched in 2018, and since then, 300 trawlers have been equipped with the device. The project has been a huge success, with the fishermen reporting significant improvements in communication, location tracking, and emergency response.
The impact of the Transponder technology has been felt not just by the fishermen but also by the fishing community as a whole. The technology has improved the overall safety and efficiency of the fishing operations, which has resulted in increased productivity and reduced costs. The fishermen are now better equipped to respond to emergencies, which has reduced the risk of accidents and fatalities.
The Transponder technology is not just a safety measure but also an economic driver. The fishing industry is a significant contributor to the state’s economy, and the technology has helped to improve the overall efficiency and productivity of the industry. The fishermen are now able to fish in safer and more efficient conditions, which has resulted in increased catches and improved livelihoods.
The success of the Transponder technology has also inspired other states to adopt similar measures. The technology has been recognized as a model for other states, and several states are now planning to adopt similar measures to improve the safety and efficiency of their fishing operations.
In conclusion, the Transponder technology developed by ISRO has been a game-changer for the fishermen of West Bengal. The technology has improved communication, location tracking, and emergency response, which has reduced the risk of accidents and fatalities. The device has also improved the overall efficiency and productivity of the fishing operations, which has resulted in increased catches and improved livelihoods. The success of the Transponder technology is a testament to the power of technology in improving the lives of people and promoting sustainable development.
News Source:
https://thecsrjournal.in/isro-transponder-technology-brings-safety-revolution-west-bengal-fishermen/
