Drones enhance efficiency, excitement in Jubilee Hills by-election

Drones were deployed for the first time in Telangana to monitor the Jubilee Hills by-election, enhancing transparency and security. Operated by experts from Chennai and Hyderabad, the drones transmitted live footage to officials, impressing voters with the Election Commission’s tech-driven approach

Hyderabad: The District Election Commission deployed drones to oversee the Jubilee Hills by-election, marking a significant technological advancement. Officials said the move ensured the smooth conduct of polling and enhanced security.

Voters were particularly impressed by the efficiency and precision with which the drones operated. Many expressed excitement at seeing the commission use drones for the first time. “This new surveillance is excellent and should continue in the coming GHMC polls, too,” a few voters told Telangana Today.

A huge rush was observed at polling stations 165, 166, 167, 169, 170, and 171, which were set up for the by-poll at the Training Institute of TS Transco (Hostel Block) at Erragadda. Polling began at 9 am, and a festive atmosphere prevailed on the premises.

Two drone operators, one from Chennai Drone Academy and another from the Hyderabad-based Drone Institute, operated the devices. They used a mobile phone attached to a remote to transmit footage to the MCC control room at the GHMC head office. They said that except in Telangana, specifically in the Jubilee Hills by-poll, drones were not used elsewhere in the country for polling.

District Election Officer R V Karnan operated a drone in one polling station as part of the inspection of polling stations on Tuesday.