Using drones enables a precise and fast inspection of the condition of assets. It saves inspection time, enables accessibility to arduous spots and generates highly accurate reports about the condition of tunnels, Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said during a visit to the Dubai Metro Depot at Al Rashidiya.

“This initiative, which is in line with Smart Dubai Strategy 2021, uses custom-made drones fitted with multiple cameras enabling pictorial monitoring of tunnels via high-definition lenses. It also enables the inspection of tunnel walls through infrared radiation. The technology generates instant reports easing the assessment of the condition of assets, monitoring the maintenance works and detecting faults.

The process is linked with RTA’s Maintenance Department, and provides a paperless digital inspection platform that curbs potential human errors,” said Al Tayer. During the visit, Al Tayer reviewed initiatives and projects undertaken by the Rail Agency to improve the operation and maintenance of Dubai Metro, such as the trial-run of using nanotechnology at Noor Bank Station.

The technology reduced the cost of the station exterior cleaning by 35 per cent, decreased the cleaning and maintenance frequency and enhanced the protection of frontends and floors of both stations and trains. It also enhanced floor resistance to scratching and adhesion, facilitated self-cleaning and boosted thermal insulation characteristics.