Panvel civic body to curb encroachments with satellite images

Navi Mumbai: The Panvel civic body has floated a tender to carry out a survey of its area through satellite imaging.
This GIS-based survey will identify structures, open plots and their demarcations, which will help curb illegal encroachments and constructions. Initially, the footage will be taken once in six months and later once in three months. The images will be checked by the town planning department to check for illegal construction.
PCMC commissioner Ganesh Deshmukh said, “The first GIS image will be compared with that of the existing data and then validated.After six months the validated data and changes in the second image will be cross-checked. Thereafter, those who have indulged in illegalities will be served with demolition notices.”
PCMC additional commissioner Prashant Rasal said, “The tender has been floated to take footage through satellite imaging. This GIS-based tech is meant to curb illegal encroachments and constructions. Initially, the footage will be taken once in six months and then once in three months. Around Rs 1 crore will be spent on this project in three years.”
The additional commissioner said companies having a tie-up with Isro will be allowed to execute the work through satellite imaging. The image taken will capture the outside contours of existing buildings and open spaces, and then changes were observed.
Any alteration in the outside portion of buildings will be captured and also developments on open plots, Rasal said.
PCMC commissioner Ganesh Deshmukh said, “After validation by the town planning department, if there are illegalities they will come to the fore. The system will generate a message automatically. The illegal constructions and encroachments can be monitored at the head office.”
The designated ward officer will be asked to take action against any illegal activities. The first such image will be taken on January 1, 2019, Rasal added.
It can be noted that comparison of two images will be done electronically. Coloured flags will be flashed in the system wherever changes are noticed in two consecutive images.