On February 13, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved as the Japan Drone Business Support Association, based in Okayama City, and Tree Bell Inc., located in Adachi City, Tokyo, officially signed a disaster response agreement with the Adachi City Government. This agreement marks the first collaboration between a drone association and a municipality within the 23 wards of Tokyo, highlighting the growing recognition of drone technology's crucial role in disaster management.
Background and Purpose of the Agreement
The increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters have underscored the urgent need for rapid response measures. This agreement aims to enhance the disaster response capabilities of Adachi City, facilitating effective situation assessment, damage control, and swift recovery efforts in the event of an emergency. With Tree Bell offering its expertise in drone technology, the partnership is poised to provide vital support to the local community in times of crisis.
Key Aspects of the Agreement
The collaboration will focus on several key initiatives, including:
1.
Information Gathering: Utilizing drones to assess damage in Adachi City during disaster situations, enabling real-time data collection and evaluation of affected areas.
2.
Data Provision: Sharing visual data captured by drones directly with Adachi City officials to aid in decision-making and resource allocation.
3.
Search Operations: Conducting drone-assisted search missions to locate individuals who may be trapped or missing following a disaster.
4.
Cargo Transportation: Facilitating the transport of essential supplies using drones in the aftermath of a disaster.
Details of the Agreement Signing
The signing ceremony took place at the Adachi City Hall and was attended by key representatives, including:
- - Koji Morimoto, Executive Director of the Japan Drone Business Support Association
- - Kazuko Suzuki, CEO of Tree Bell Inc.
- - Yayoi Kondo, Adachi City Mayor
- - Yoshihiko Chikazaki, Head of Crisis Management
- - Toru Yoshikura, Head of Disaster Strategy
- - Kan Manabe, Head of Urban Planning
In addition to the agreement signing, a follow-up meeting is scheduled for March 19, 2024, to discuss ongoing collaboration and strategies with city officials.
Future Initiative Plans
Looking forward, the partnership plans to initiate various disaster prevention and response training programs, including:
1.
Rescue Training Exercises: Conducting mock drills aimed at enhancing the skills of responders in drone-assisted search and rescue missions.
2.
Supply Transport Training: Preparing for real scenarios by practicing the logistics of transporting emergency supplies via drone.
About the Japan Drone Business Support Association
Founded in October 2016, the Japan Drone Business Support Association is dedicated to promoting the use of drones across various business sectors. It focuses on developing drone pilots, offering pilot training courses, and even certifying drone-related skills. With a fleet of over 80 drones, the association has previously established disaster response agreements with multiple municipalities, making this partnership with Adachi City its tenth collaboration.
About Tree Bell Inc.
Established in December 2023, Tree Bell Inc. specializes in integrated drone services, which include aerial photography and drone operation training programs. Their commitment to advancing drone technology for social good complements the objectives of the Japan Drone Business Support Association.
Adachi City has also formed its own drone pilot team known as the Adachi Flying Squad (A.F.S.), comprising city staff. This partnership will enhance cooperation with A.F.S in future training and operational exercises, ensuring a well-prepared and responsive community.
For further inquiries or collaborative opportunities, interested parties can reach out via email at
[email protected], directed to Koji Morimoto.