SASE develops technology for avalanche control

The construction of the Rohtang tunnel was started in 2000 on Leh-Manali highway to providing an all-weather road route to Ladakh. Due to heavy snow,the roads remain closed for over four months a year. Heavy snow and blizzards are also witnessed in the area.

To check these problems,SASE started work on developing techniques,which could prevent the damage caused by avalanches. The structures that are being constructed will deflect the avalanche away from the road — some will cause the snow or water — in case of heavy rain — to slide down. This will ensure that the roads are not blocked. Also,accidents caused due to avalanches will be mitigated.

SASE Director Ashwagosha Ganju said: “It has almost been a month since the techniques are being put to use at Rohtang and the feedback has been positive. The techniques will ensure that the damage caused due to avalanches is reduced. SASE has 90 per cent accuracy when it comes to predicting avalanches.”

What is SASE?

SASE is a DRDO lab engaged in research and development and cryospheric hazard assessment and mitigation. The main focus is to ensure efficient mobility of the defence forces in difficult terrains. It has also developed a remote operated vehicle to be used for data collection in hilly and hazardous areas.