Hubballi: In an effort to accurately identify and map assets belonging to the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC), a 3D Geographic Information System (GIS) survey was recently undertaken. As part of this initiative, aircraft equipped with advanced LiDAR sensors conducted aerial surveys over the twin cities from April 24 to May 4. The operation was successfully completed, according to Dr. Rudresh S. Ghali, Commissioner of HDMC.
Accompanied by Additional Commissioner Vijayakumar R., Dr. Ghali visited the Hubballi Airport to review the progress of the aerial survey. He stated that a total investment of ₹23.5 crore has been allocated for this 3D GIS mapping project, which is being executed by Mumbai-based firm Genesys International Corporation. Known for its global expertise, the company has previously completed similar 3D digital mapping projects for Dubai and Varanasi.
Dr. Ghali added that Genesys owns four specialized aircraft equipped with LiDAR sensors, which were used exclusively for this survey. These aircraft are fitted with advanced nadir and oblique cameras along with LiDAR technology to capture high-resolution imagery and geospatial data throughout the city. This data will now be analyzed to generate true ortho-images and detailed 3D city models.
The Commissioner emphasized that this aerial survey marks a significant step toward transparent and modern urban governance in Hubballi-Dharwad. The initiative is expected to provide precise geospatial data crucial for informed city planning and development.
In the next phase, ground truth verification and data analysis will be carried out. Properties located in narrow lanes will be documented using two-wheelers fitted with 3D panorama view sensors, while broader roads will be covered using vehicles like Scorpios and Boleros.
A comprehensive 3D model of the twin cities will be created. GIS technical teams, along with municipal staff, will visit each property to record details such as the property type, owner’s name, mobile number, and other relevant data using a mobile application. To facilitate this work, a dedicated GIS survey office has been set up at the Smart City Integrated Command and Control Centre (I-CCC) building.
Dr. Ghali explained that the survey will support the implementation of an extensive geospatial information management system, which includes GIS and 3D digital twin generation, LiDAR mapping, creation of 2D and 3D base maps, multi-purpose household surveys, and development of web and mobile GIS platforms.
The primary objective of the GIS survey is to enhance property tax collection. Once the survey is complete, data on buildings, poles, parks, cemeteries, slums, and roads in every ward will be available at the click of a button. Future expansions of the system will also include detailed information on roads and underground drainage systems.
The Commissioner concluded by stating that increased tax collection at the ward level will directly contribute to the overall development of the city.
