No drones, but CCTVs to keep a check over Hampi Heritage area

No drones to be allowed for patrolling in the Hampi heritage area. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) stated this when the said idea was shared and advised the authorities to install more CCTVs to monitor tourists and other untoward incidents.

In the past two years, a lot of vandalism incidents were reported, the main reason why the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority (HWHAMA) sought permission to fly drones to keep a watch over visitor and tourist movements. However, ASI Deputy Superintending Archaeologist M Kalimuthu, while referring to this, informed that considering the fact that in case of drone crash, there might be security issues and might also lead to possible damage of the monuments. The official also added that they have requested the government to provide additional security personnel in Hampi. Also, as per latest reports, HWHAMA has tied up with a software company and has unveiled a mobile app for providing real-time data on monuments. During the trial period, the app was created and infused with information on the Hazara Rama Temple and Vijaya Vittala Temple. The app can be downloaded on the phone and it will help you walk through the monuments.

To access the app, a code will be provided to the visitors on payment of INR 10, which will enable the visitors to use the mobile as their guide while taking the tour. In the near future, tourists will be able to use the code and download all details about the monuments. This change has been introduced to stop unauthorised guides misleading domestic and foreign tourists. In some cases, it has been found that the guides were providing wrong information, whereas some were charging higher fees.