Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram   

Geomatics lab ready at university

G. Mahadevan

Geomatics, an emerging discipline, includes tools and techniques used in GIS and GPS

STATE-OF-THE-ART LABORATORY: The newly set up Geomatics lab at the Department of Geology, University of Kerala. Photo: S. Mahinsha

Thiruvananthapuram: A geomatics laboratory, equipped with computers and software capable of analysing remote sensing data and three-dimensional stereoscopic analysis of digital images, is all set to become operational at the Department of Geology, University of Kerala.

The laboratory has been set up with financial assistance from the University Grants Commission, the Department of Science and Technology and the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment.

"Geomatics is an emerging discipline that includes tools and techniques used in remote sensing, Geographic Information System (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS) and related forms of earth mapping. This broad term applies both to science and technology, and integrates acquisition, modelling, analysis, and management of spatially referenced data, that is, data identified according to its locations. This type of integration of spatial data and preparation of maps is an integral part of teaching and research in geology," head of the department V. Prasanna Kumar said.

The lab's software includes a GIS package with Arc GIS, Arc View and Arc Info: packages for remote sensing data analysis and a Photogrammetry suite for the three dimensional stereoscopic analysis of digital imageries. According to Dr. Prasanna Kumar the application of geomatics in planning for developmental projects and environmental management is on the rise and, hence, there is great demand for professionally trained geologists with specialisation in geomatics.

Although the primary focus of the lab would be geomatics research, the Department plans to offer certificate courses in GIS, remote sensing and photogrammetry and a PG diploma programme in geomatics. Courses tailor-made for departments of agriculture, forest, irrigation, town planning and courses for officials of the KSEB and NATPAC — departments that can use tools of geomatics for planning and implementing projects — are also being planned. The department also plans to submit a proposal to the Department of Education for instituting training programmes for schoolteachers in remote sensing. Dr. Prasanna kumar pointed out that though remote sensing was part of the geography syllabus in schools, teachers have had very little exposure, if at all, to techniques of teaching this subject.

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