Written by Pauline Lafleur May 31, 2023 ยท 3 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
India is a vast country with diverse topography, ranging from mountains to plains, deserts to islands. Topographical maps are essential for various sectors, including defense, urban planning, and infrastructure development. But who prepares these maps? Let's find out.
What is a Topographical Map?
A topographical map is a detailed representation of the Earth's surface, showing the physical features of an area. It includes contour lines, which indicate the elevation of the land, and other features such as rivers, lakes, and forests.
Who Prepares Topographical Maps in India?
The Survey of India is the national mapping agency of India and is responsible for preparing topographical maps of the country. It was established in 1767 and has since then been providing accurate, reliable, and up-to-date maps of India.
How Does the Survey of India Prepare Topographical Maps?
The Survey of India uses various techniques to prepare topographical maps, including ground surveys, aerial surveys, and remote sensing. Ground surveys involve physically measuring the land using instruments such as theodolites and total stations. Aerial surveys use planes or drones to capture images of the land. Remote sensing involves using satellites to capture images of the Earth's surface.
What are the Scales of Topographical Maps in India?
The Survey of India prepares topographical maps in different scales, depending on the purpose. The most commonly used scales are 1:50,000, 1:25,000, and 1:10,000. The larger the scale, the more detailed the map.
What is the Importance of Topographical Maps?
Topographical maps are essential for various sectors, including defense, urban planning, and infrastructure development. They provide information about the physical features of an area, such as the elevation, rivers, lakes, and forests, which is crucial for decision-making.
How Accurate are Topographical Maps in India?
The Survey of India is known for its accuracy in preparing topographical maps. The maps are regularly updated to reflect changes in the physical features of an area. However, the accuracy of the maps depends on the scale and the technique used to prepare them.
How Can Topographical Maps be Accessed?
Topographical maps can be accessed through various means, including online portals and physical maps. The Survey of India has an online portal, Bhuvan, which provides access to topographical maps of India. Physical maps can be obtained from the Survey of India's offices across the country.
What are the Challenges in Preparing Topographical Maps?
Preparing topographical maps is a challenging task, given the vastness and diversity of India's topography. The Survey of India faces challenges such as difficult terrain, lack of infrastructure, and security concerns, especially in border areas.
Conclusion
Topographical maps are an essential tool for various sectors in India. The Survey of India is responsible for preparing accurate and reliable topographical maps of the country using various techniques. Despite the challenges, the Survey of India continues to provide up-to-date maps of India's diverse topography.