In News:

The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, has developed SARAT Version 2 to aid Indian Search and Rescue (SAR) agencies like the Indian Coast Guard.

Key Highlights:

Purpose: SARAT is designed to assist in locating missing objects or individuals at sea by simulating the probable search area, considering factors like wind, currents, and waves.

Improvements in Version 2:

• The search area now starts from the last known position of the object, improving the accuracy of the search.
• Enhanced visualizations for better judgment of probable search areas, including colour coding of regions and markers to identify the last known position.
• Optimized search: Reduces the vast search area to a few high-probability regions, allowing for better utilization of limited search resources.

Technical Aspects:

• The tool uses model currents from the Regional Ocean Modelling System run on high-performance computers at INCOIS.
• It accounts for uncertainties in the initial location and the last known time of the missing object using model ensembling.
• Users can select from 60 types of missing objects based on shape and buoyancy.

Interactive Map & Multi-language Support:

• Results are shown on an interactive map, providing the probable search area.
• The tool also sends results as text messages to emails and mobile phones in languages of coastal states, enabling local fishermen to use it effectively during distress situations.

Launched in 2016, Updated in 2024: SARAT was launched in 2016 and the updated version (SARAT Version 2) has been designed with feedback from the Indian Coast Guard and other stakeholders involved in marine search operations.

Access: The updated SARAT Version 2 can be accessed at: https://sarat.incois.gov.in/sarat/home.jsp.