Published Date: 10-01-2021

LiDAR Survey for Delhi-Varanasi High Speed Rail Corridor Commences

The LiDAR survey for the Delhi-Varanasi High Speed Rail Corridor started today from Greater NOIDA, where a helicopter fitted with state-of-the-art aerial LiDAR and imagery sensors took its first flight to capture ground survey data.

National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) is adopting Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology, which provides detailed ground survey data in 3-4 months, a process that normally takes 10-12 months.

The ground survey is a crucial activity for any linear infrastructure project, as it provides accurate details of areas around the alignment. This technique combines laser data, GPS data, flight parameters, and actual photographs to produce precise survey information.

During the aerial LiDAR survey, 300 meters (150 meters on either side) of area around the proposed alignment is being captured. After data collection, a three-dimensional (3D) topographical map of a 50-meter corridor on either side of the proposed alignment at a scale of 1:2500 will be available for designing:

• Vertical and horizontal alignment
• Structures and locations of stations and depots
• Land requirement for the corridor
• Identification of project-affected plots/structures
• Right of Way planning

As per the nine standard benchmarks set by the Survey of India, 86 master control points and 350 secondary control points have been established. These coordinates are being used to guide the aircraft along the Delhi-Varanasi HSR corridor alignment.

To capture clear images of structures, trees, and other ground details, 60-megapixel cameras are being used during the LiDAR survey.

NHSRCL has been entrusted with preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for seven High Speed Rail Corridors, and the LiDAR survey technique will be employed for ground surveys across all these corridors.

Additional Information:

• The DPR for the Delhi-Varanasi HSR Corridor was submitted to the Ministry of Railways on 29th October 2020.
• The corridor will connect the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi with major cities including Mathura, Agra, Etawah, Lucknow, Raebareli, Prayagraj, Bhadohi, Varanasi, and Ayodhya.
• The main corridor from Delhi to Varanasi (~800 km) will also provide connectivity to Ayodhya and the upcoming international airport at Jewar in Gautam Buddha Nagar District, Uttar Pradesh.

Link to download high-resolution LiDAR flight videos: Click here

Previous press release on the same topic can be viewed here: Click here