Making a Database to Update the Topographic Maps in Fallujah District

Abstract

The research aims to develop a modern and integrated topographic database for Al-Fallujah District that contributes to supporting urban planning, resource management, and improving the production of updated maps with high accuracy to serve developmental aspects.

The concept and importance of topographic maps lie in their detailed representation of the Earth’s surface, its terrain, and natural and human features with high accuracy. They provide essential spatial information that supports urban and engineering planning, slope analysis, route determination, and efficient management of resources and development projects.

Updating topographic maps is considered essential due to continuous changes in land use and geographical features. It contributes to providing accurate and up-to-date spatial information that supports decision-making in urban planning, infrastructure design, and the management of environmental risks and natural hazards.

The study relied on remote sensing data, using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery with high spatial resolution, and Landsat-9 imagery for spectral analysis including vegetation index (NDVI), desertification index, and built-up index. Additionally, SAS Planet software was used to obtain high-resolution recent satellite scenes. Digital Elevation Models (DEM) with 30 m and 12.5 m resolution were also employed to produce accurate terrain models, along with using Differential GPS equipment to collect highly accurate field coordinates.

The study resulted in the production of modern topographic maps for Al-Fallujah District at three scales: 1:100,000 including three topographic map sheets, 1:50,000 including seven sheets, and 1:25,000 including seventeen sheets.

Based on the findings, the study recommends the adoption of national programs in Iraq for the periodic updating of topographic maps through integrating remote sensing technologies, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and modern field surveying equipment to ensure the production of comprehensive topographic databases that support spatial development goals.

Keywords: Databases, Topographic Maps, Satellite Images, Geographic Information Systems.