Software Developed To Detect Unauthorized Encroachments On Defence Land

New Delhi: An Artificial Intelligence-based software, which can automatically detect change on ground, including unauthorised constructions and encroachments in a time series, has been developed by Centre of Excellence on Satellite & Unmanned Remote Vehicle Initiative (CoE-SURVEI).

CoE-SURVEI, established by Directorate General Defence Estates (DGDE) at National Institute of Defence Estates Management, leverages latest survey technologies such as satellite imagery, drone imagery and geo-spatial tools for effective land management and urban planning.

The change detection software has been developed by CoE-SURVEI in collaboration with knowledge partner Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Visakhapatnam.

The tool currently uses National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) Cartosat-3 imagery with trained software. The changes are detected by analysing satellite imagery of different time periods.

The application has already been used by CoE in 62 cantonments with comparisons being done vis-à-vis ground position.

The tool enables chief executive officers (CEO) of Cantonment boards to identify changes on ground that are of permanent nature. Thereafter, they can check if such changes are authorized or are without due sanction of competent authority.

The CEO comes to know if action has been taken in time against unauthorized constructions or encroachments. If not, suitable legal action can be taken without delay.

Besides better control and monitoring of unauthorized activities, the software ensures accountability of field staff and helps reduce corrupt practices.

Of the 1,133 unauthorised changes detected, action had already been taken in 570 cases.

The tool has also facilitated effective defence land management.