Land surveying is a specialised profession where the job goes beyond just studying the productivity of the land. It requires an understanding of the various survey and levelling instruments, carrying out surveys of land and preparation of survey plans, etc.

Surveying is essentially the technique and science of accurately determining the terrestrial or three-dimensional space position of points and the distances and angles between them. In order to accomplish their objective, surveyors use elements of geometry (which means measuring the Earth in Greek), engineering, mathematics, physics and law.

What do i have to do?

Surveyors measure distances, directions, and angles between points and elevations of points, lines and contours on, above, and below the earth’s surface. In the field, they select known survey reference points to determine the precise location of important features in the survey area. They research legal records, look for evidence of previous boundaries and analyse the data to determine the location of boundary lines. They also record the results of surveys, verify the accuracy of data as well as prepare plots, maps and reports. There are several aspects to the survey work:

lFeasibility studies which involve exploratory surveys carried out on a potential site to assess the economic viability of a proposed project.

lGeospatial measurement which involves using a variety of equipment and techniques to construct precise models of the site. The methods include photogrammetry which is 3-D digital imaging of surface features, remote sensing which involves mapping of land cover and use by utilising satellite imagery and theodolites as well as laser technology which includes the use of surveying instruments and global positioning system (GPS) to produce precise coordinates and measurements of site features.

Land surveyors build visualise objects, distances and sizes to determine the location of important features. They have to exercise precision and accuracy because any error on their part can prove to be expensive. Apart from complete knowledge of the land features, surveyors are also trained to look at all legalities pertaining to the piece of land involved. They research old deeds and other legal documents and prepare reports to document their work.

In India, land surveyors are employed to depict the topographical features, spot levels, contours and services details of development works such as sewer lines, water supply lines, storm water drains, etc. Some are trained to conduct various large-scale sur hydrographic surveys; that of cities and towns for developmental projects such as the setting up of industries, hotels, schools, colleges and housing facilities; routing for roadways, railway lines, gas lines and water lines; thermal power projects and transmissions lines; and the agricultural domain dealing with irrigation projects.

Those employed in surveying jobs are required to work in accordance with governmental rules and regulations when sanctioning projects.

What should i study?

You should be a science graduate with maths at the Plus Two level. You must also have an aptitude for mathematical subjects such as algebra, geometry and trigonometry. Other necessary skills include drafting, mechanical drawing and computer science.

What next?

You can seek a job in governmental departments related to surveying or land development in general or you can function as an independent consultant for builders, architects and civil engineers. Some of the posts in government departments are as a cartographer, director of planning and zoning for a township, mapping specialist, regional planner, remote sensing specialist, etc.

Employment opportunities also exist in construction, engineering and property development companies, specialist surveying firms, banks, building societies, etc.

You can find opportunities as researchers, instructors, and professors at schools, colleges and universities as well.

where to study

• Survey Training Institute, Uppal, Hyderabad (www.soisti.gov.in).
• A.P. Survey Training Academy, Survey Bhavan, Hyderabad.
• Council of Architecture, New Delhi.
• Michigan Technological University, Michigan, US.
• School of Engineering Surveying and Space Geodesy, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom.