Tech Drones to monitor infamous Aokigahara forest

To combat the ongoing problem of suicides in Aokigahara Forest, local authorities are now using drones alongside traditional foot patrols. Aokigahara, a vast, ancient forest at the base of Mount Fuji, is notorious as a "suicide forest" due to its isolated location and secluded environment. Despite being a popular hiking destination, the forest's secluded nature has tragically attracted those contemplating suicide. While officials regularly patrol the dense forest, some individuals attempt to enter at night. To improve nighttime surveillance, authorities are working with Jdrone to assist in search and rescue efforts for those in distress.

Protocol involves two drones taking turns to patrol the area at an altitude of up to 140 meters, using thermal imaging cameras to detect human heat signatures. Once a person is detected, a third drone quickly responds and either an employee or recorded message via speaker will urge the individual to seek help and return to the trail. Jdrone employees monitor the situation and, if necessary, dispatch ground patrol officers to provide assistance. Drone surveillance began this month and is scheduled to continue until March. An analysis of the initiative's effectiveness will then determine whether it will continue beyond April. Prefectural officials said they plan to explore various ways to operate the drones effectively, such as flying above the forest or navigating through the trees.

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Drones have been used to prevent suicides in Japan since 2017, with Tōjinbō (東尋坊), a tourist spot in Fukui Prefecture, being an early example. Over 30% of suicides in Fukui last year were believed to be committed by individuals from outside the prefecture. Yamanashi Prefecture, home to Aokigahara Forest, has a high suicide rate. While its official rate is 19.2 per 100,000 people, the rate rises to 26.8 when considering suicides that occurred within the prefecture, including those in Aokigahara. Many of these cases involve individuals from other parts of Japan, drawn to the forest's secluded nature. Last year, Yamanashi police rescued 235 people attempting suicide, with over half being rescued by staff from the Fujiyoshida Police Station, which patrols Aokigahara.

As heartbreaking as it is to hear this many people can't bear to keep going, it's comforting to hear the authorities take combatting suicide seriously. Do we know how successful their efforts have been?