Esri Global and GIS Solutions introduce modern land administration system

Esri Global is the world leader in geographical information system (GIS), which is exclusively distributed in Sri Lanka by GIS Solutions Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Just In Time Group. The Survey Department of Sri Lanka (SDSL) being the National Surveying and Mapping Organization for the country was the key stakeholder and joint organizer of this event.

The event was driven by sharing valuable and key insights, which were brought in by key decision makers from the SDSL and the other Public sector Land Administrative organisations in order to promote sharing of information, collaboration and coming together for a general consensus on a way forward about how developments in the Land management and administration activity could be planned and implemented for the future benefit of Sri Lanka.

This seminar was about sharing knowledge and exchanging ideas. It was also about learning how establishing a Cadastre could aid national development. An international expert having considerable experience in land management subject area Mr. Brent A. Jones, PE, PLS - Global Manager, Cadastre/Land Records, Esri- Presented the Key Note Address on "Why Cadastre", by his learning's and global case studies on the matter Whilst the Opening address on the "Current State of the Cadastre in Sri Lanka" was done by The Surveyor General of Sri Lanka P.M.P Udayakantha while gave a very candid and open view on the issues and realities at hand .

The event featured two very interesting interactive sessions conducted by very senior executives from the government organizations; UDA, Land Use Policy Planning, Census and Statistics Department, Land Commissioners Department, CMC, and the Ministry of Lands and others.

Key challenges, opportunities and possible way forwards were also part of the discussion from the ideas exchanged as a question and answer session between the panellists and the audience. Innovative ideas like, 'crowd sourcing information for Land Records using a digital web based platform' were also brainstormed.