Garud surveys have provided significant assistance in search and rescue operations after natural disasters. They complement search and rescue helicopters, making them an essential part of the NDRF toolkit. Garud surveys can relay real-time information accurately, which plays a crucial role in urban security by not only defining the role of cities but also providing the administration with the ability to deploy active measures rather than just responsive ones— a hallmark of the smart city survey. In India, drones have also played a significant role in crowd control measures for the police during religious events.

Through integration with secure wireless networks and mobile applications, the consolidation of Garud surveys can contribute to the transformation of smart cities into secure spaces. Their application can extend to projects such as metro development, bus transit, or even mapping sites for bicycle paths. With the need to rapidly advance Smart City initiatives, drones offer flexibility, allowing surveyors to efficiently map lengthy corridors and gather comprehensive data for informed decisions during the project’s initial phases.