Egypt uses satellite tech to track waterway changes
The Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation is expanding its use of remote sensing to detect illegal construction along canals.
Egypt’s Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation is using satellite imagery and remote sensing technology to detect illegal construction and other changes along waterways. Minister Hani Sewilam reviewed a monitoring model developed by the ministry that uses Google Earth Engine to track changes in and around canals. The model identifies new buildings along water banks and alterations to watercourses, allowing faster detection of potential violations.
Minister Sewilam stressed the importance of satellite imagery for better waterway monitoring and more accurate water management decisions. The ministry is also developing geospatial databases to document encroachments and changes, which will help field teams respond more efficiently. Sewilam directed officials to combine satellite data with field measurements, existing databases, and artificial intelligence for analysis and planning.
The ministry’s initiative aims to improve the protection of water resources. Field teams will use data from these databases to identify and respond to potential violations more efficiently.
Why it mattersEgyptians who rely on waterways for agriculture and daily life will benefit from better monitoring and management of water resources.