Struggling to check unbridled encroachments and building violations, Indian city Chandigarh, will now find it easier to curb the menace with detailed three-dimensional (3D) maps in its hands. These maps will also help in flood control, formulation of a more accurate and updated Chandigarh master plan, linking of all properties with geo-tagging and identification of property eligible for imposition of property tax.
The 3D map formulation has been completed at a cost of ₹4 crore and was done using aerial and mobile Light Imaging Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) Survey. This whole process took four years to be completed.
The key use of the technology will be in checking illegal constructions and encroachments across the city. “The laser-guided map photos were taken in 2018. They detail the violations till that time. It will also help in detection of violations even after that period after updating of pictures,” a senior official of the city administration connected with the project was quoted as saying.
“The project was delayed as different departments didn’t provide data related to their departments in time. But after coordination meetings, requisite information was finally provided,” said the official.
City’s adviser Dharam Pal has instructed the nodal department, Society for Promotion of IT in Chandigarh (SPIC), to initiate the training programme. “I have instructed that the head of departments must be first trained to use the 3D maps so that proper utilisation of this great tool can be done at all levels,” Pal was quoted as saying.
