He noted that the state has effectively used geospatial technology for preparing city development plans.
As the city suffers from frequent floods, experts believe that officials are not using the available geographical information system (GIS) which can tackle the problem through preventive measures as well as by speedy delivery of relief.
“Every monsoon brings the same story of death and damage. Karnataka has advanced technology but the government is not utilising it. GIS can help in taking necessary steps to reduce the damages caused by floods as well as precautionary measures,” said founder and CEO of Viz Experts Praveen Bhaniramka.
He said crucial data like population density, scale of the rain, infrastructure, sanitary and stormwater drains, the intensity of the flooding can be gathered with the help of GIS. “Based on this, the officials can get an idea of the damage and take steps to prevent damage. It will also help in restoration,” he added.
He noted that the state has effectively used geospatial technology for preparing city development plans.
“Under K-GIS plan, the government has been developing digital spatial infrastructure. Rs 150 crore has been sanctioned for the project. The technology is helping different departments to prepare plans, take administrative decisions and implement development projects. Effective use of GIS is crucial for realising the dream of Smart City,” he said.
The problem lies in lack of coordination between different departments. “The government has information and data. But it doesn’t have the devices and applications that can help in using and analysing them to take decisions. For instance, the state disaster management cell provides specific information from weather forecast to warnings but this is not reaching the citizens or even the department concerned. There should be a system when such data and information should help taking administrative decisions quickly,” he said.
DH News Service