The Karnataka government is set to revolutionize land surveying by replacing traditional methods with a GPS-based system. This change, announced by Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, involves the distribution of 465 modern measuring instruments known as rovers. The new technology promises to drastically reduce the time taken for surveys and improve accuracy, addressing longstanding issues in land measurement.
- The shift to GPS technology will enhance efficiency in land surveys.
- Rovers will replace a 200-year-old manual system that was prone to errors.
Modern Technology Transforming Land Surveys
The Karnataka revenue department is embracing a significant technological advancement by implementing a GPS-based land surveying system. This innovative approach replaces the outdated 200-year-old method of using chains and manual map drafting, which was not only time-consuming but also susceptible to errors and manipulation. Minister Krishna Byre Gowda emphasized the efficiency of the new system, stating that what previously took at least 70 minutes for a single survey and an additional three hours to draft a map can now be accomplished in just 10 minutes with the use of GPS technology.
With the introduction of rovers, the government aims to enhance accuracy and speed, ultimately addressing the challenges that have plagued land surveys for years. The rovers will work in conjunction with 41 Continuous Operating Stations (CORS) established throughout Karnataka, ensuring precise coordinates for mapping purposes. This technological shift is positioned to significantly streamline the surveying process, particularly in urban areas where demand for accurate land measurements is high.
Implementation and Future Plans
The deployment of rovers is just one aspect of a broader initiative aimed at modernizing land surveys in Karnataka. J. Manjunath, the Commissioner of Survey and Land Records, indicated that the department has already utilized drones and aerial vehicles to survey 21 of the 31 revenue districts, covering a substantial area of Karnataka’s 1.9 lakh square kilometers. By the end of March, the goal is to complete digital mapping of the entire state, providing residents and stakeholders with comprehensive and accurate land records.
In line with the Centre’s Svamitva scheme, the state is also surveying and creating maps for 30,715 villages, many of which have never been documented before. This initiative aims to include detailed surveys of both private and public properties, enhancing transparency and reducing disputes over land ownership. Additionally, the government plans to issue property cards by March 2026, further solidifying the importance of accurate land records in property transactions.
Impact on Land Ownership and Administration
The introduction of a GPS-based surveying system is expected to have far-reaching implications for land ownership and administration in Karnataka. By modernizing the survey process, the state government aims to minimize disputes over land boundaries and ownership rights, which have historically resulted in prolonged legal battles. The precise mapping capabilities afforded by this new technology will not only expedite the surveying process but also instill greater confidence in land records among property owners.
As Karnataka continues to advance in its efforts to digitize land records and improve surveying accuracy, the successful implementation of the GPS-based system could serve as a model for other states in India. The ongoing initiatives are setting a precedent for the effective use of technology in public administration, promising a future where land ownership is clearly defined, and disputes are minimized.
