KOZHIKODE: Calicut University will be the first university in the state to have a geographic information system (GIS) of its own. The GIS system is designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present all types of spatial and geographical data of the University. The system would be useful while envisaging and planning various projects for the University.
The system, designed by the University Computer Science department, will be launched during August first week. Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Computer Science HOD Dr Lajish V.L said that the System would help the students locate a building and also contribute immensely to the engineering and instrumentation engineering departments while planning construction and identifying vacant spaces in the varsity.
“GIS is a future technology which we will be depending on a lot for various needs. Our aim is to make use of the technology as early as possible so that the various departments can use it effectively. At present I think Bombay University is using it effectively,” said Dr Lajish.
“It is a very good initiative which helps to get an idea about land use, water resources, biodiversity, crops, underground cables, soil quality, vacant spaces, infrastructure requirements etc in the more than 500 acre campus in the University. Use of technology for positive things should always be encouraged,” said Calicut University VC Dr M Abdul Salam.
The GIS system uses Openstreet Map for the purpose of mapping with the help of Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, Dehradun.
The data for the GIS has been collected with the help of Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Computer Centre and Estate Office departments. In the second phase, the GIS will cover off centres of the varsity and affiliated colleges.
