Project Description: The Barr Al Hikman Royal Aqua Project, an initiative of the Oman Investment Fund, was a large-scale venture covering 80,000 hectares. Aimed at boosting the aquaculture sector, the project required an extensive topographic survey to guide the development of aquafarming infrastructure.

Challenges:

The project team faced significant environmental challenges. Oman's extreme summer temperatures and persistent wind conditions presented difficulties in data collection and equipment operation. Moreover, the expansive area of the project demanded a rapid yet precise survey within a constrained timeline.

Solutions and Equipment Used:

1.RTK Drones: High-precision RTK drones were deployed for aerial surveys, capturing comprehensive data over the vast site.

2.Mobile Mapping: To augment the aerial data, mobile mapping systems were used, providing flexibility in data acquisition across difficult terrains.

3.3D Scanner Systems: Advanced 3D scanners captured detailed ground-level features, essential for a complete understanding of the site.

4.Leica RTK GPS: Leica RTK GPS units offered ground-truthing to ensure the accuracy of all collected data.

Software Utilized:

1.Pix4D Mapper: The aerial images and data collected were processed with Pix4D Mapper, creating precise 2D Ortho-mosaics, 3D models, Digital Elevation Models (DEMs), and 3D point clouds.

2.AutoDesk Civil 3D: Civil 3D was instrumental in preparing contour maps and detailed site mapping,facilitating the design of aquaculture infrastructure.

3.Leica Cyclone: Leica Cyclone software edited and refined the 3D point clouds, ensuring high-quality data for analysis.

Outcomes

Despite the challenging weather conditions and tight schedule, the team successfully conducted the topographic survey, delivering high-quality data that was critical for the project's planning and execution. The integration of diverse technological tools and software enabled the Oman Investment Fund to proceed with confidence in developing the Barr Al Hikman Royal Aqua Project, ensuring its alignment with the environmental and economic goals of the region. The project stands as a testament to the potential of combining traditional survey techniques with advanced technology to overcome environmental challenges.