2009-08-07
SA company puts Nigeria on the map
Advances in geospatial technology and services have become widely recognised as valuable tools in both Government and private sectors. Geographic Information Systems have been at the leading edge of the advances in this industry. Countries around the globe are making use of these technologies to assist in infrastructure planning and development, identifying areas rich in natural resources and the rehabilitation of the environment. Recently the Enugu State awarded a contract to a South African company to conduct aerial surveys of the state which is situated in the Eastern part of Nigeria.The creation of an accurate Geographical Information System or GIS is crucial to many government programs. GIS systems are used to establish the correct locations of known points in order to assist in planning and development. The locations of these known points are determined after processing survey data and/or high accuracy geospatial data, which is collected through the meticulous mapping and surveying process.
Says Peter Moir, chief executive of Southern Mapping Company (SMC): “Through the use of sophisticated software and Lidar (Light detection and ranging) technology, we are able to take mapping layers, or survey data, and convert them into GIS coordinates which are then used by government entities for everything from city planning, creating inventory assets such as utilities infrastructure to providing accurate information for locating possible mining areas and agricultural landscapes.”
Lidar provides numerous advantages compared to conventional surveying and mapping technologies such as total stations, GPS (global positioning systems) and photogrammetry. Firstly, vegetation penetration, the Lidar has a very narrow beam that is able to penetrate dense foliage to reflect off the ground and return to the aircraft. This provides accurate ground elevation readings beneath the tree canopy. Secondly, digital workflow efficiency, both the Lidar and the digital camera deliver their raw data to computer discs in the aircraft, this data is then delivered to the processors and within hours documentation of the days surveying is complete, this saves time. Thirdly, accuracy is critical for the success of any project. Due to the sheer density of the laser points, a terrain model of extremely high accuracy can be delivered. Finally, minimal ground control is required due to the accurate measuring equipment used in the air craft.
“We will be partnering with The Digital Map Company (DMCo) in Nigeria and sharing our knowledge, resources and expertise with them.” SMC will be delivering a set of digital colour orthophotos, a digital elevation model (DEM) dataset and contours for the entire Enugu State. The area to by surveyed is approximately 7,681km². The purpose of the survey is to provide the local municipality with accurate maps and surveys to be used for planning, development and infrastructure maintenance.
“African countries are continuously working towards growth, development and improved sustainability. Accurate maps and surveys are crucial for governments and local municipalities to plan ahead, discover untapped resources and manage existing resources,” says Moir. The company assists various sectors related to mining, agriculture, forestry, water, infrastructure development and environmental management.
Through partnerships with their African counterparts, Southern Mapping Company’s primary objective is to assist public and private enterprises through aerial surveys to map strategic resources to enhance business opportunities and facilitate sustainability throughout the African continent. Application of the latest Lidar, GIS and hyperspectral technologies will enhance the socio-economic development of the continent and will make a significant contribution towards growth and potentially making Africa the world’s most sought- after supplier of agriculture and natural resources.
Southern Mapping Company
SMC provides topographic surveys and mapping to assist a variety of industries and sectors. These include civil engineering and infrastructure development, mineral explorations and mine management, environmental planning and rehabilitation, and urban and agricultural planning. The company operates worldwide, but specialises throughout Africa. SMC’s staff were the first in the world to combine Lidar with aerial photography and now have added hyperspectral to their product offering. For more information about Southern Mapping Company please visit www.southernmapping.com.Date issued: June 2009
Issued by: Martin Snoek Communications (MSC)
Contact person: Lisa Andersen
E-mail: lisa@martinsnoekcommunications.com
Telephone: (011) 4657652 / (011) 4657652
Fax: 0866841769 Address: P O Box 954, Fourways, 2055
