The Centre for Geoinformatics of IRTC is functioning under the broad umbrella of NRM division. IRTC has set up a well-equipped GIS laboratory. A WebGIS based Decision Support System is in place to help various stakeholders, including Panchayats for preparing action plans for soil and water conservation, improving agriculture productivity, livelihood support programmes and creation of other durable assets. The Centre is also capable of supporting LSGIs in developing their disaster management plans. The Centre for Geoinformatics has ventured into the mapping of landslide prone area and flood level. The GIS lab uses free and open source software and also provides training programmes to various beneficiaries including students, professionals and researchers. GIS cell is presently offering diversified training programmes to agriculture officers, panchayat secretaries, development planners and engineers working in construction and design fields. It has already completed 7 rounds of training to different beneficiaries.

Mapping the Spatial Distribution of Quarries in Thrissur, Palakkad, and Kozhikode Districts, Kerala

Under the Environmental Research and Development Scheme (2019-2020), supported by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change (DoECC), Government of Kerala, the Geospatial Science and Technology Division, IRTC, conducted a comprehensive study to map the spatial distribution of granite quarries in Thrissur, Palakkad, and Kozhikode districts.
This study utilized geospatial techniques and extensive field surveys to develop a granite quarry database, which was validated through satellite imagery analysis and ground truth verification, with updates covering up to 2021. The study provides crucial data for local self-government bodies, enabling them to implement projects focused on disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, and sustainable resource management.
The research team was led by Dr. S. Sreekumar as the Principal Investigator, with Mr. Anand Sebastian as the Co-Principal Investigator. The project team included Rajan M, Vivek Asokan, Haritha S, and Malavika A S who contributed significantly to the study’s successful execution
The Full report can be accessed here: http://envt.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Mapping-of-Spatial-Distribution-of-Quarries-in-Thrissur-Palakkad-and-Kozhikode-Districts-Kerala.pdf