Utilization of LiDAR and IKONOS satellite data for security hotspot analysis based on realism of 3D city model

Abstract

This paper highlights the study on realism of 3D city urban model for security hotspot analysis using remote sensing data and spatial analysis approach. New advanced remote sensing data, namely LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and IKONOS satellite data were used to obtain the spatial information of the urban features which used to simulate the 3D urban city model. This study examines the threats from the snipers using multi-criteria algorithm, emphasizing on viewshed and distance analysis on 3D urban city model of Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, one of the most frequently selected venue for many public events. The main output of the study is the identification of potential spots, best to enclave prospective snipers given the effective shooting ranges and clear viewshed to the target of interest. Rainfall effects, a common environmental factor that hinders clarity of snipers viewshed in tropical cities has also been considered in the identification of these potential risky spots. The identified risk spots were later confirmed fully with in-situ verifications, hence demonstrated the utility of such technique for applications in the security hotspot analysis.