GUWAHATI: In a major step towards modernising postal services in remote regions, India Post has partnered with drone logistics company Skye Air Mobility to transport mail bags across difficult terrains in Assam and Himachal Pradesh through what is being described as India's largest postal drone network.
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Under the initiative, drone operations will reportedly be introduced across 150 routes, including 40 locations in Assam and 110 locations in Himachal Pradesh. The project aims to strengthen last-mile connectivity in areas where geographical challenges and limited transport infrastructure have traditionally delayed postal services.
The rollout is expected to have a significant impact in Assam, where remote settlements, seasonal flooding and difficult terrain often hinder timely delivery of mail and essential services. By using drones to transport Branch Office mail bags between Account Offices and Branch Post Offices, India Post hopes to reduce transit times and improve service accessibility in hard-to-reach areas.
Skye Air Mobility Private Limited has signed an agreement with the Department of Posts (India Post) to operate the drone-based delivery network. The company said the initiative represents the country's largest postal drone deployment to date.
Highlighting the potential of the technology, India Post stated on social media platform X that journeys which previously took more than two hours through challenging terrain can now be completed in just seven minutes using drones.
"What once took over 2 hours through difficult terrain now takes just 7 minutes, powered by technology, precision, and a vision for stronger last-mile connectivity," India Post said in a post on X.
The initiative is expected to enhance the efficiency of postal operations while improving access to government and communication services for residents living in remote and geographically challenging regions of Assam and Himachal Pradesh.