The GIS mapping-based Digital Twin project, aimed at identifying unauthorised constructions and facilitating future development within the Kochi Corporation, will be taken forward in bursts covering five divisions at a time.

The plan is to sustain the project through revenue recovered from such unauthorised structures, including through revenue recovery proceedings. The initiative, implemented by UL Technology Solutions (ULTS), the digital wing of the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society (ULCCS), has already been completed in eight area-based development divisions identified under the Smart City project during the pilot phase. The pilot project report has been handed over to the Corporation.

Mayor V.K. Minimol has suggested the feasible approach of covering five divisions at a time under the project, with an estimated cost of around ₹12 crore. “The project will go a long way in enhancing the Corporation’s own revenue. It will help identify all constructions carried out with the Corporation’s approval and is part of the civic body’s larger digital infusion to ensure quick and scientific development works,” she said.

ULTS will deploy drones and single-engine aircraft equipped with LiDAR cameras that combine traditional photography with laser-based distance measurement to capture three-dimensional imagery of the entire Corporation area. “While the data generated is highly accurate, we also conduct door-to-door verification to reinforce its reliability, which can then be cross-checked with the Corporation’s asset register. Covering five wards may take three to six months depending on the deployed staff strength,” said ULTS sources.

The company also plans to recruit and train college students for the project, thereby generating jobs as well. Their services could be utilised for periodic updates of data. The 3D imagery captures virtually everything except moving vehicles. “It covers waterlogging, drain networks, Kerala Water Authority pipelines, and electric poles of the Kerala State Electricity Board. The data will be made available on a GIS-enabled platform URL. It will be especially useful to the engineering department and will prove handy for identifying land for future development projects,” ULTS sources added.