Call for drones to be used to identify blocked drains
A Louth TD has called for more use of drones and aerial photographs in identifying blocked drains and streams during drought.
Deputy Declan Breathnach has called for the increased use of overhead monitoring, with the use of drones or aerisal photography during the ongoing dry spell ‘so that blocked drains and gullies can be addressed and dealt with before our next bout of heavy rainfall, which is inevitable.’
The Louth TD said he was making the call ‘in light of the recent discovery of an unusual circle that has been revealed in a field near to the UNESCO Newgrange monument due to the drought conditions.’
‘ This was discovered by a hobby drone user who is also a historian, and recognised the significance of his find. It comprises a previously undiscovered henge, or circular enclosure, described as an extremely significant find.’
He highlighted that in the north, in County Down, due to the drought conditions and extremely low water levels at the Spelga Reservoir, an ancient roadway to the Mourne Mountains has been revealed, an old road and bridge which is usually well below the water level.
Deputy Breathnach added that along with these historic discoveries, there was also a practical need for overhead imaging to be taken.
‘We need to use drones and aerial photographs across the country now during these drought conditions to see what drains and gullies are blocked or need work.
‘We are going to have an inevitable deluge sooner rather than later, as the drought conditions are set to end soon.,’ said the Louth TD
‘ The opportunity to clean drains, gullies and stream courses now while water levels are low should not be missed, to avoid flooding when the rainfall comes.’