Trichy Uses LiDAR Mapping to Detect Property Tax Gaps and Building Violations
Trichy, August 21, 2026: Trichy Corporation is set to conduct the city's first comprehensive GIS mapping exercise using LiDAR technology and survey-grade drones to identify property tax discrepancies and create a detailed database of properties, utilities and urban infrastructure.
The four-month project, estimated to cost ₹1.6 crore, will cover all five zones of the city and around 2.4 lakh property assessments.
Drone Survey to Check Property Tax Records
The primary objective of the mapping exercise is to identify differences between recorded and actual built-up areas.
The survey will use LiDAR remote sensing, multi-oblique cameras and differential GPS technology to create accurate 2D and 3D maps of properties.
Officials will also look for unauthorised additional floors, terrace structures and discrepancies in floor-wise built-up areas that could result in incorrect property tax assessments and revenue losses.
GIS Database to Support Urban Planning
Beyond property tax collection, the project will create a citywide database covering around 78 parameters.
The information will include locations of police stations, fire stations and hospitals, along with details of roads, public parks and streetlights.
The corporation expects the database to improve planning and help maintain accurate records of civic assets.
Green Cover to Be Mapped
The GIS exercise will also assess green cover across Trichy's five zones.
The data will be integrated with the Urban Trees Information System (UTIS) and could help the corporation identify areas requiring afforestation and improve its environmental planning.
Why It Matters for Property Owners
The survey could bring greater accuracy to property tax assessments by comparing official records with actual construction on the ground.
For property owners, this means discrepancies in built-up area or unauthorised additions could come under greater scrutiny. For the civic body, more accurate property data could help reduce tax leakages and strengthen long-term urban planning.
A tender has already been floated to select an agency for carrying out the GIS mapping project.