Application of GIS in urban utility mapping using image processing techniques

Growing cities are creating an alarming situation in all countries of the world. It has led to serious land use problems such as loss of agricultural land, unauthorized urban sprawl, high land values, speculation in land, and other related problems. In this emerging scenario, it is essential to have updated information on urban growth patterns and their impact on the living environment. Growth and development of these cities are likely to continue and therefore there will be a need for proper planning and managing or improving the existing infrastructure facilities. This study demonstrates image fusion of LISS-IV MX and Cartosat-1 satellite data to create detailed town planning and utility mapping for amenity patterns and facilities available in Karaikal city, India. Road patterns within the city are analyzed and a road network map is generated. A proximity analysis was carried out to understand the availability of institutions, hospitals, and industries for effective disaster management. Karaikal has grown rapidly in all directions especially in north, northwest and west parts. A big question for planners is the provision of proper amenities. Using geographic information system and remote sensing, city administrators can now evolve an expert decision support system aimed at various decisionmaking processes.