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 fishermen in West Bengal. The space agency has developed a state-of-the-art technology called the Satellite-Based Maritime Safety Assistant System (SMSAS), or Transponder, which is being installed in trawlers to enhance communication, location tracking, and emergency response in treacherous waters. This innovative technology has been installed in over 300 trawlers, providing a vital safety lifeline to deep-sea fishermen.
West Bengal is one of the largest producers of fish in the country, with a significant portion of the catch coming from the deep sea. However, the region’s fishermen often venture into rough waters, making them vulnerable to accidents, piracy, and other hazards. The introduction of the Transponder technology is a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of these fishermen.
The Transponder device is a small, compact unit that is installed on board the trawlers. It is equipped with advanced communication technology that enables fishermen to send distress signals to the authorities in case of an emergency. The device also has a built-in GPS system that tracks the location of the trawler, making it easier for rescue teams to locate them in the event of a distress call.
One of the key benefits of the Transponder technology is its ability to provide real-time information about the location and status of the trawlers. This information is transmitted to the authorities through a satellite link, enabling them to monitor the movement of the trawlers and respond quickly in the event of an emergency.
The introduction of the Transponder technology has already shown promising results. Since its installation, there have been several instances where fishermen have sent distress signals using the device, and the authorities have been able to respond quickly to their calls. In one instance, a trawler sent a distress signal after it encountered engine trouble, and a rescue team was able to reach the location within an hour and rescue the fishermen on board.
The Transponder technology is not only a lifesaver but also a game-changer for the fishing industry in West Bengal. It has increased the confidence of fishermen, enabling them to venture into deeper waters and fish for longer periods. This, in turn, has led to an increase in the catch and a boost to the local economy.
The success of the Transponder technology is attributed to the close collaboration between ISRO and the Department of Fisheries, Government of West Bengal. The two organizations worked together to identify the needs of the fishermen and develop a technology that would meet their requirements.
“The Transponder technology has been a game-changer for the fishing community in West Bengal,” said a senior official from the Department of Fisheries. “It has increased the safety of our fishermen and enabled them to fish for longer periods, leading to an increase in the catch and a boost to the local economy.”
The Transponder technology is not just limited to West Bengal. ISRO is planning to install similar devices on trawlers across the country, with the aim of increasing the safety and efficiency of the fishing industry. The technology has the potential to revolutionize the way fishermen operate, enabling them to fish in safer and more efficient ways.
In conclusion, the Transponder technology developed by ISRO is a significant step forward in ensuring the safety of fishermen in West Bengal. The device has already shown promising results, and its introduction is expected to increase the confidence of fishermen, leading to an increase in the catch and a boost to the local economy. The success of the Transponder technology is a testament to the innovative spirit of ISRO and its commitment to using technology to improve the lives of people.
Source: https://thecsrjournal.in/isro-transponder-technology-brings-safety-revolution-west-bengal-fishermen/
