Egypt's Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation is scaling up the use of drone technology to safeguard its vital water network. Drone Tech has successfully completed a pilot project mapping canal structures using high-density LiDAR and multi-spectral sensors.

Combatting Aquatic Weeds

One of the most persistent issues in irrigation is the rapid growth of water hyacinth and other weeds, which restrict water flow. Multi-spectral drone mapping allows engineers to:

  • Detect early weed growth before it blocks navigation or flow
  • Classify plant species using remote sensing signatures
  • Optimize biological and mechanical clearing schedules

    • LiDAR Structural Inspections

    By flying low-altitude missions with LiDAR sensors, we capture centimeter-grade terrain models of canal banks. This data is critical for:

  • Spotting erosion patterns and embankment degradation early
  • Monitoring concrete lining integrity across remote channels
  • Planning restoration work with highly accurate volume calculations

    • For more details on the program, view the reports on Daily News Egypt.