GDA to use satellite imagery to curb encroachments

Ghaziabad: To keep a tab on illegal constructions, the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) is planning to implement geographical information system (GIS). The system will help GDA access real-time data of any location through satellite imagery, enabling it to keep a tab on the extent of encroachments.

"There are close to 250 illegal colonies that have come up in Ghaziabad over the past few years, and the problem is growing," said Ravinder Godbole, secretary and officiating vice-chairperson, GDA. "It is not possible for us to physically verify locations affected by illegal constructions. We are now planning to introduce GIS, which will help pinpoint encroached localities on a real-time basis so that we can act accordingly," he added.

Elaborating on how GIS works, Godbole said it enables access to the physical attributes of any locality with the help of remote sensing. "A survey will be done every three months, which will be matched with previous report. Any change in the physical appearance in the form of construction would be verified with the Master Plan, and if it is found to be in violation of the plan, we will act," he said.

Residents welcomed the move. Alok Kumar, patron of Federation of Apartment Owners' Association, said: "The idea is indeed a good one. It will also help check the corruption which some GDA officials indulge in."

The GDA is in talks with private companies which are active in GIS surveying. "As of now, we are in talks with companies who are demanding Rs 5 lakh per 10 hectares of GIS data. That is subject to negotiations, and we hope to bring down the expense further," Godbole said.