The smart map system consists of a few big screens showing maps, real-time data, and onsite videos. [Photo/WeChat account: chongchuanonline]

Chongchuan district, the main urban area of Nantong in East China's Jiangsu province, recently developed a smart map system to guide flood prevention and control efforts. It proved highly effective during rescue efforts in the aftermath of Typhoon In-Fa.

The system is based on a panoramic map of Chongchuan and accesses nearly 20,000 surveillance videos installed across the district. It makes urban public facilities easily visible on the map and exposes emergencies as soon as possible, according to the district command center, the designer of the system.

First responders will provide firsthand information by sending videos, and information from drones will be transferred to the platform to enable visualized operations.

With the help of map, district and sub-district command centers are able to deploy rescue forces in the most efficient way possible.

As of July 28, Chongchuan's newly-established flood control and drought relief headquarters has handled more than 100 emergencies using the smart system, minimizing the impact of extreme weather.