Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 12: In a landmark event held on December 11, the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK) showcased the culmination of ground-breaking technology with the dedication of the System for Emergency Assistance, Response, and Communication Hub (SEARCH). The event took place at the NITK campus in Suratkal and marked a significant leap in emergency response capabilities, particularly tailored for the coastal areas of Dakshina Kannada.
SEARCH, anchored by its control and command centre within portable container cabins, integrates cutting-edge UHF/VHF/HF radio stations and autonomous aerial, marine vehicles. Born out of a transdisciplinary project led by the Centre for System Design (CSD) at NITK Suratkal, SEARCH redefines the landscape of emergency management.
SEARCH stands out as pioneering achievement globally. It seamlessly integrates autonomous marine vessels, aerial vehicles and HAM radio stations within a single hub housed in portable containers. This ground-breaking integration showcases a revolutionary approach to disaster management, emergency response, and communication systems.
While designed for disaster response, SEARCH has broader applications, its scope has expanded to include a variety of applications such as monitoring water and air quality, observing patterns of coastal erosion and accretion, and assessing the health of mangroves. It also supplies vital coastal data to CRZ officials upon request. Furthermore, SEARCH serves as an educational hub for a diverse audience, including industry professionals, district administrators, academics, students, and HAM or Amateur radio enthusiasts.
HAM Radio operations are being supported by Mangalore Amateur Radio Club (MARC) along with Manipal, highlighting the collaborative efforts of regional clubs in ensuring effective communication during emergencies.
Dr Pruthviraj U, the project head of SEARCH and professor in charge of transdisciplinary R and D, played a pivotal role in the conceptualization and implementation of SEARCH. Other key faculty members, including Prof K V Gangadharan, Dr Mohit P Tahiliani, and Dr Sreevalsa Kolathayar, contributed significantly to making SEARCH a true transdisciplinary project.
NITK alumni, through their generous donations to SEARCH, demonstrate a commitment that transcends philanthropy. Their dedication reflects a deep sense of giving back to the institution that played a pivotal role in shaping their journeys. These contributions have been instrumental in making SEARCH a reality.
SEARCH dedication was graced by the presence of Prof B Ravi, director. NITK Suratkal. Distinguished guests, including Rangan Ramasamy a distinguished alumnus from the class of 1983, and Yajnanarayana Kammaje, chairman of the Sona Group and NITK alumnus from the class of 1971 graced the ceremony, emphasizing the enduring influence of NITK alumni. Colonel Anilesh Kaushik, officer commanding of NCC Office (2 Kar Engr Coy NCC) at NITK, added prestige to the event.
Esteemed alumni such as Ram Bhandare, A S Karanth and representatives from various NITK alumni association chapters nationwide were present during the occasion and have significantly contributed to making SEARCH a reality.
The dedication of SEARCH is not merely a technological milestone, it is a celebration of innovation, education, and community spirit. NITK, through initiatives like SEARCH, continues to shape the future, pushing the boundaries of technology and fostering a sense of responsibility among its alumni.
As the curtains rise on SEARCH, a new era in emergency response capabilities begins, guided by the indomitable spirit of NITK and its visionary alumni.