Kazakhstan deploys drones to enhance beach safety

Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations has introduced a new way to improve water safety. From now on, drones capable of broadcasting voice messages and AI-powered surveillance cameras will monitor the country’s beaches.

The ministry said that the «speaking» drones are primarily deployed in areas with the largest crowds. Lifeguards fly them directly over recreation areas to broadcast safety guidelines and warn people about potential risks.

Solar panels and artificial intelligence

In addition to drones, the ministry is actively introducing smart cameras. In Almaty, Qonaev, and the Abai and Zhetysu regions, 101 AI-assisted surveillance systems have already been deployed. The neural network automatically determines the boundaries of safe swimming areas. If a person swims too far, the system automatically activates an alarm and issues a voice warning.

Lifeguards in the Khromtau district of the Aktobe region have gone a step further — 16 solar-powered cameras have been installed at the most dangerous and off-limits swimming areas. Since they do not require electricity, lifeguards can monitor conditions around the clock even in remote locations.

In total, 296 surveillance systems have been deployed along shorelines in Astana, Almaty and other regions of Kazakhstan. Their live feeds are transmitted to the control rooms of the Departments of Emergency Situations and rescue units.