Drones enhance power line safety during Tarim River flood season

To ensure the safety of power lines along China's longest inland river, the Tarim River, which is now in the flood season with rising water levels, the State Grid Aksu Power Supply Company has deployed drones for the first time to the inspection work.

The Tarim River gets water from melting snow in the Tianshan and Kunlun mountains. During the summer months from July to September, the temperature rises, causing faster snowmelt and increased water flow in the river.

Local power departments have been increasing the number of power lines being inspected along the river during this flood season. However, the vast and varied terrain in the Tarim River basin, including forests, swamps, and lakes, makes it challenging to inspect all areas efficiently.

To address this, the company is now using drones with advanced cameras, sensors, and navigation systems to autonomously inspect power line towers along planned routes. This has boosted inspection efficiency and accuracy, reduced blind spots, and cut operational costs.

According to the company, these drones can navigate through complex terrain and capture clear images in real time, which is helpful for inspection tasks.