What is Geomatics Engineering?

आज हामी एउटा बन्द कोठामा बसेर आफु भन्दा टाडा गुडिरहेको गाडी, हिडिरहेको मान्छे वा अरु जुनसुकै कुराको सठीक स्थान पत्ता लगाउन सक्छौं । विश्वको हरेक कुनाको नक्सा, अझ उपग्रहहरुले खिचेका तस्बिरहरु मार्फत वातावरण, प्राकृतिक स्व्रोत साधन, जोखिम र प्रकोपको विश्लेषण गरेर विश्वलाई नै अनुगमन गर्न सक्छौ । एउटै बिन्दुमा उभिएर डाडा-काडा, नदिनाला, ठुला ठुला क्षेत्रहरुको नक्सांकन गरेर पूर्वाधार निर्माणमा प्रयोग गर्न सक्छौ । यी सबै सम्भव पार्ने बिज्ञानको नाम हो जियोमेटिक्स (Geomatics) । जियोमेटिक्स इञ्जिनियरिइंग एक भू-सूचना प्रविधिको विषय हो जसले भौगोलिक डेटाको संकलन, मापन, अनुगमन, प्रस्तुतीकरण र विश्लेषण मार्फत विभिन्न संरचनाहरुको व्यवस्थापन गर्छ। धेरै कमले सुनेको अनि बुझाउन निकै गारो पर्ने यो पेसा विश्वकै एक द्रुत गतिमा बृद्धि भइरहेको छेत्र हो र यसको माग पनि विस्तृत श्रृंखलामा छ ।

जियोमेटिक्स इन्जिनियरिङलाइ सिभिल इन्जिनियरिङ, सूचना प्रविधि, वातावरण र पृथ्वी विज्ञानको सम्मिश्रण पनि मानिन्छ।

नेपालको परिवेशमा सर्भे इन्जिनियरिंग भनेर पनि चिनिन्छ । कुनै पनि भौतिक पुर्वाधारको निर्माण कार्यमा यस इन्जिनियरिङले उक्त भौगोलिक स्थलको सर्भेक्षण र अध्ययन गरी सो परियोजनामा अनुकूलता प्रदान गर्दछ। जियोमेटिक्स इन्जिनियरले सडक, पुल, सुरुंग, उद्योग निर्माणदेखि हाइड्रोपावर वा कुनै पनि भौतिक पूर्वाधार निर्माणको लागि निर्माण स्थलको सर्भे गर्छन् । सर्वेक्षणबाट आएको डेटाले नक्सा बनाएरा सिभिल र आर्किटेक्टलाइ डिजाइन गर्न दिन्छन्। जियोमेटिक्स इन्जिनियरहरू सर्वेक्षण प्रविधि, मापन विज्ञान, अत्याधुनिक सर्भे उपकरण, कम्प्युटर सफ्टवेयर र प्रोग्रामिङ मा पोख्त हुन्छन् । सर्वेक्षण (Surveying), नक्सांकन (Mapping), मापन विज्ञान (Measurement Science), भौगोलिक सूचना प्रविधि (GeoIT), GIS, जियोडेसि (Geodesy), फोटोग्रामेट्री (Photogrammetry), रिमोट सेन्सिङ (Remote Sensing), GPS/GNSS, Satellite Navigation, भूमि व्यवस्थापन (Land Management), भू-उपयोग आयोजना, वातावरणीय अनुगमन, सहरी विकास आयोजना आदि, जियोमेटिक्स इन्जिनियरिङको मुख्य क्षेत्रहरू हुन् । यस पेसामा कार्यरत इन्जिनियरहरूले जिपीएस (GPS), ‘जिआइएस’(GIS), थियोडोलाइट (Theodolite), Total Station, DGPS, ड्रोन (Drone), LiDAR, जस्ता अत्याधुनिक उपकरणहरूको प्रयोग गर्दै सर्वेक्षण गर्छन् । अफिसमै बसेर काम गर्नेहरु GIS, Computer Programming, Software, Web Mapping, Remote Sensing, Geospatial Analysis आदि मा बिज्ञ हुन्छन ।

जियोमेटिक्स क्षेत्रको सम्भावना विश्वको विकसित राष्ट्र अमेरिकाले समेत जियोमेटिक्स पेसालाइ आफ्नो देशको सबैभन्दा द्रुत गतिमा वृद्धि भइरहेको र माग पनि तेतिनै बढिरहेको सुचिमा राखेको छ । नेपाल जस्तो विकास उन्मुख राष्ट्रमा यसले निकै ठूलो सम्भावना बोकेको छ । ग्रामीण र सहरी क्षेत्रमा दिगो विकास, वातावरण संरक्षण, विपत्ति न्यूनीकरणको राष्ट्रिय आकांक्षालाई सकारा पार्ने एक विकल्प जियोमेटिक्स इन्जिनियरिङ पनि हो । नेपालमा सरकारी, गैरसरकारी/अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय गैरसरकारी संस्था, हाइड्रोपावर, नेपाल विद्युत् प्राधिकरण, नेपाल आर्मी/पुलिस, निर्माण कम्पनी, परामर्श प्रदायक संस्था, लगायत कृषि, बन, खानी, वातावरण, प्राकृतिक सम्पदा व्यवस्थापनदेखि पूर्वाधार र संरचना व्यवस्थापनसँग सम्बन्धित थुप्रै संस्थाहरूमा अवसरहरु छन् । यसको साथै नेपाल भन्दा बाहिर हेर्ने हो भने त पृथ्वीको हरेक कणको अनुगमन र विश्लेषण देखि लिएर अन्तरिक्ष अन्वेषणहरु मा थुप्रै अनुसन्धान गरेको पाइन्छ । नेपालमा भने नामले भन्दा पनि कामले बडी चिनिने यस पेसाको उत्थान र प्रोत्साहन अझै जरुरि देखिन्छ । यसको विविध क्षेत्रहरुको अनुसन्धान केन्द्रको स्थापना गरेर नवीनतम प्रविधिको खोज र अन्वेषण गर्न सरकारी निकाय तथा यस पेसा प्रेमी सरोकारवाला हरुले ध्यानाकर्षण गर्न जरुरि छ ।

Applications of Remote Sensing and GIS in Environmental Monitoring

Environmental monitoring is crucial for understanding and managing the natural world, particularly in the face of challenges such as climate change, deforestation, and pollution. Remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are powerful tools that provide comprehensive data and analysis capabilities, enabling effective environmental monitoring and management. Here, we explore the key applications of these technologies in environmental monitoring.

1. Climate Change Monitoring

Remote sensing and GIS are instrumental in tracking and analyzing climate change. Satellite imagery and aerial data provide valuable information on temperature variations, sea level changes, and the melting of polar ice caps. GIS integrates these data with historical climate records, enabling scientists to model climate trends, predict future changes, and develop mitigation strategies.

2. Deforestation and Land Use Change

Monitoring deforestation and land use change is critical for biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management. Remote sensing provides up-to-date images of forest cover, allowing for the detection of deforestation activities. GIS tools analyze changes in land use over time, identifying patterns and hotspots of deforestation. This information helps policymakers and conservationists take targeted actions to protect forests.

3. Water Resource Management

Managing water resources effectively requires accurate data on water bodies, their quality, and availability. Remote sensing technologies, such as radar and multispectral imaging, monitor water levels, surface runoff, and groundwater reserves. GIS integrates these data to create comprehensive water resource management plans, ensuring sustainable use and distribution of water resources.

4. Air Quality Monitoring

Air quality is a significant concern for public health and the environment. Remote sensing technologies, including satellites and drones, measure pollutants such as carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter in the atmosphere. GIS maps these data, providing a spatial analysis of air quality across different regions. This information helps identify pollution sources and develop strategies to improve air quality.

5. Biodiversity and Habitat Monitoring

Protecting biodiversity requires detailed knowledge of habitats and species distributions. Remote sensing provides high-resolution imagery that helps identify and map critical habitats, track wildlife movements, and monitor changes in vegetation cover. GIS integrates these data to assess the health of ecosystems, identify endangered species, and plan conservation efforts.

6. Disaster Management and Mitigation

Remote sensing and GIS are vital for disaster management, including the monitoring and prediction of natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, and wildfires. Satellite imagery provides real-time data on disaster events, while GIS models the impact and extent of these events. This information supports emergency response efforts, risk assessment, and the development of disaster mitigation plans.

7. Agricultural Monitoring

Sustainable agriculture relies on monitoring crop health, soil conditions, and land use practices. Remote sensing technologies, such as hyperspectral imaging, assess crop vigor, soil moisture, and nutrient levels. GIS integrates these data to provide farmers with precision agriculture tools, optimizing resource use, improving yields, and reducing environmental impact.

8. Urban Environmental Monitoring

Urban areas face unique environmental challenges, including pollution, heat islands, and green space management. Remote sensing captures urban landscapes, monitoring changes in land cover, temperature variations, and pollution levels. GIS analyzes these data to inform urban planning, promote green infrastructure, and enhance the quality of urban environments.

Conclusion

The integration of remote sensing and GIS in environmental monitoring has transformed how we understand and manage natural resources and environmental challenges. These technologies provide comprehensive, real-time data and sophisticated analysis tools, enabling informed decision-making and effective environmental management. As remote sensing and GIS technologies continue to evolve, their applications in environmental monitoring will expand, driving innovation and sustainability in environmental practices.

My Graduate Journey

How to Get Fully Funded Graduate Research or Teaching Assistantship in the USA

Pursuing higher education in the United States can be a dream for many students worldwide. However, the high cost of education often poses a significant barrier. The good news is that many universities in the USA offer fully funded graduate research or teaching assistantships to help students cover their tuition and living expenses. Here’s a guide on how to secure these opportunities and make your dream of studying in the USA a reality.

Steps to Secure a Fully Funded Assistantship

1. Research Potential Universities and Programs

Start by identifying universities in the USA that offer graduate programs in your field of interest. Look for programs with strong research components and faculty members whose work aligns with your interests. University websites often provide detailed information about their assistantship opportunities.

2. Prepare for TOEFL/IELTS and GRE

Since this guide is for students whose first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate your English proficiency. Most universities require either the TOEFL or IELTS. Additionally, many programs require the GRE, though some may not. Check the specific requirements of each program you are interested in. However, I would not recommend the GRE for the following reasons(Personal Opinion):

• Cost: The GRE can be expensive, and additional costs such as study materials and test preparation courses can add up.
• Stress and Time Consumption: Preparing for the GRE can be stressful and time-consuming, diverting focus from other important aspects of your application. I think its better to focus doing relevant research of your interest in that time.
• Increasing Number of Programs Not Requiring GRE: Many universities are moving away from requiring the GRE, recognizing that it may not be the best indicator of a student’s potential for success in graduate studies.

3. Contact Potential Advisors

Reach out to faculty members whose research interests align with yours. Express your interest in their work and inquire about potential assistantship opportunities. Include a well-crafted CV that highlights your academic achievements, research experience, and relevant skills. A well-written email can open doors and demonstrate your initiative and enthusiasm.

4. Prepare a Strong Application

Your application should highlight your academic achievements, research experience, and relevant skills. Key components include:

• Statement of Purpose: Clearly articulate your academic and career goals, and explain why you are interested in the specific program and university.
• Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong recommendations from professors or professionals who can attest to your qualifications and potential.
• Resume/CV: Include relevant research experience, publications, teaching experience, and other accomplishments.

5. Apply to Universities

Apply to universities where you have received positive responses from potential advisors. However, it’s also okay to apply even if you haven’t received a response, as some universities offer funding decisions after you have been accepted by the admissions committee.

6. Highlight Your Fit and Potential

During interviews or in your application, emphasize how your background, skills, and goals align with the program and faculty interests. Show that you are a good fit for the department and can contribute meaningfully to their research or teaching efforts. Mention any relevant research papers or publications, even if they are in college journals, as these can significantly strengthen your application.

Things That Matter Most

• Academic and Research Background: Your academic achievements and research experience are crucial. Strong academic records and relevant research work can make you a more attractive candidate.
• English Test Scores: High scores in TOEFL or IELTS demonstrate your English proficiency, which is essential for success in an English-speaking academic environment.
• Relevancy of Your Interest: Ensure that your research interests align closely with those of the faculty and the program. This alignment can significantly enhance your chances of securing an assistantship.
• Publications and Relevant Experience: Having published research papers, even in college journals, or any relevant professional experience can be highly beneficial. It shows your commitment and capability in your field of study.

Additional Tips

• Network: Attend conferences, webinars, and academic events to connect with faculty and current graduate students.
• Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, requirements, and correspondences.
• Seek Feedback: Have mentors or peers review your application materials to provide constructive feedback.

Conclusion

Securing a fully funded graduate research or teaching assistantship in the USA requires careful planning, strong applications, and persistence. By following these steps and showcasing your potential, you can increase your chances of receiving financial support and embark on an exciting academic journey in the United States.

Remember, If you continue to strive for something with persistent effort and unwavering determination, you will surely achieve it one day.

Keep pushing forward, and your dreams will become a reality.