Drone technology has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many industries utilizing drones for various purposes. In Ghana, drones have been used for mapping, agriculture, and even for delivery services. However, the use of drones in certain areas, such as coastal forts, has raised concerns about safety and security.
Coastal forts in Ghana are historical landmarks that attract tourists from all over the world. These forts were built during the colonial era and served as trading posts for the European powers. Today, they are protected by the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB) and are considered national treasures. However, the use of drones in these areas has raised concerns about the safety of tourists and the security of the forts.
To address these concerns, the GMMB has implemented regulations for the use of drones in coastal forts. These regulations are aimed at ensuring the safety of tourists and the security of the forts. The regulations require drone operators to obtain permission from the GMMB before flying their drones in the forts. This permission can be obtained by submitting an application to the GMMB, which includes details about the drone, the purpose of the flight, and the operator’s qualifications.
In addition to obtaining permission, drone operators are also required to follow certain guidelines when flying their drones in the forts. These guidelines include flying the drone at a maximum altitude of 120 meters, avoiding flying over crowds or sensitive areas, and maintaining a safe distance from people and buildings. Drone operators are also required to have liability insurance and to display their registration number on their drones.
The GMMB has also established a monitoring system to ensure that drone operators are complying with the regulations. This system includes the use of CCTV cameras and drones equipped with cameras to monitor the forts. The GMMB has also trained its staff to identify unauthorized drone flights and to take appropriate action.
The regulations for drone use in coastal forts have been welcomed by many stakeholders, including tour operators and tourists. These regulations have helped to ensure the safety of tourists and the security of the forts. They have also helped to promote responsible drone use in Ghana.
However, some drone operators have expressed concerns about the regulations, stating that they are too restrictive and that they limit the potential uses of drones in the forts. They argue that drones can be used for aerial photography and videography, which can help to promote the forts and attract more tourists.
Despite these concerns, the GMMB has stated that the regulations are necessary to ensure the safety of tourists and the security of the forts. The GMMB has also stated that it is open to reviewing the regulations in the future to ensure that they are in line with technological advancements and changing needs.
In conclusion, the regulations for drone use in coastal forts in Ghana are aimed at ensuring the safety of tourists and the security of the forts. These regulations require drone operators to obtain permission from the GMMB and to follow certain guidelines when flying their drones in the forts. While some drone operators have expressed concerns about the regulations, they have been welcomed by many stakeholders and have helped to promote responsible drone use in Ghana. The GMMB has stated that it is open to reviewing the regulations in the future to ensure that they are in line with technological advancements and changing needs.