SURAKSHIT: a smartphone-based application for 'localized' GIS data aggregation in absence of internet

Abstract

Dissemination of information after a large-scale disaster is always a difficult task and hinders the possibilities of proper decision making. Relief work and rescuing survivors take a major hit without a proper map showcasing the current scenario of the disaster-hit terrain. All due to the lack of traditional communication channels after a disaster. However, we want to change this with the proposition of Android-based mobile application SURAKSHIT that prepares 'localized' crisis map through 'offline' crowdsourcing of circumstantial data and distribution of the same in a smooth manner using a delay-tolerant network. The information gap between the first responders and local survivors can thus be greatly reduced with proper knowledge about the affected area collected by the volunteers. Multimedia data accumulated with the application can further assist the rescue forces in planning rescue-relief operations better.