Cyberpunk 2019: Drones used to enforce new smog regulations

The city of Krakow is enlisting the help of drones to ensure compliance with a new ban on coal- and wood-burning furnaces.

The drones join human city inspectors in scanning the city for violations. They are equipped with an attachment which, according to officials, can measure air pollution levels and trace it to itssource with a high degree of accuracy.

Currently the program is in a testing phase through the middle of December and is being staffed by a drone operator, an environmental specialist, and a member of the city guard who is ready to pursue violations.

The ban, which went into effect earlier this year, is meant to reduce Krakow’s levels of smog, which regularly reaches dangerous levels in winter. Fines for violations can be as high as 5,000 PLN.