Drone Survey Set to Identify Landslide-Prone Areas in Shimla City

: Category: Latest; Published: 19 October 2024

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Study to Address Landslides and Land Subsidence in Shimla City.

Survey to be Conducted from October 21 to November 21

Shimla, October 19: The Himachal Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (HPSDMA) is set to conduct a detailed drone-based LiDAR survey in Shimla. This survey will focus on studying the increasing incidents of landslides and land subsidence in the city.

The decision comes after recommendations from the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Recent incidents have raised serious concerns, prompting the need for immediate action.

Deputy Commissioner Shimla, Anupam Kashyap, confirmed the survey's timeline.

"Shimla has witnessed a concerning rise in landslides and subsidence cases in recent times. The government of Himachal Pradesh raised this issue with GSI for a comprehensive study. This led to the approval of the detailed survey," he said.

The survey will run from October 21 to November 21, 2024. It will be conducted by Convolution Engineering Consultancy LLP, under the direction of the HPSDMA.

"We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure every major affected site in Shimla is covered. This includes sensitive no-fly zones. The necessary permissions, including those concerning military zones, have been secured," Kashyap added.

A key meeting on September 7, 2024, helped finalize the logistics for the drone survey. Representatives from GSI, the Shimla district administration, and disaster management officials attended. The Shimla district administration and DDMA will coordinate the entire process. They will ensure smooth operations and cooperation from all concerned authorities.

What is LiDAR?

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is an advanced technology used to map the earth's surface. It works by using laser sensors mounted on drones.

These sensors send millions of laser pulses to the ground. The pulses bounce back after hitting various surfaces. By measuring the time it takes for these pulses to return, the system creates a 3D model of the terrain.

The results of this study are expected to guide future strategies to prevent further disasters in Shimla. This will help authorities make informed decisions on urban planning and disaster management.