GRADUATE REPORT ON

SURVEY TYPES AND TECHNIQUES

In the partial fulfilment of the requirement for the award of degree of

Master of Planning (Urban Planning)

SEMESTER – II

Submitted under
Assistant Prof. Alka Pandya

ADVANCED PLANNING TECHNIQUES

Submitted by
DAKSHATA S. VARNE
(2331030101018)

Guided By:

Assistant Prof. Alka Pandya

Assistant Professor
Department of Design & Planning

(JUN, 2024)
 Bhagwan Mahavir College of Design and Planning, Surat
Department of Planning
(2023-24)

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the work being presented in this Graduate Report entitled
“SURVEY TYPES AND TECHNIQUES” submitted by Er. Dakshata Santosh Varne, of
Semester – II, M.Plan. (Urban Planning) bearing submitted to the Architecture &
Planning Department at Bhagwan Mahavir College of Design and Planning; Surat is an
authentic record of my own work carried out during the period of odd semester 2024
under the supervision of Prof. Alka Pandya.

Neither the source there in, nor the content of the seminar report have been copied or
downloaded from any other source directly. I understand that my result grades would be
revoked if later it is found to be so.

Er. Dakshata Santosh Varne

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 Bhagwan Mahavir College of Design and Planning, Surat

Department of Planning

(2023-2024)

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that Graduate Report entitled “SURVEY TYPES AND TECHNIQUES”
is presented and report is submitted by Dakshata Santosh Varne of Second Semester for
partial fulfilment of requirement for the degree of M. Plan. (Urban Planning) of
Bhagwan Mahavir College of Design and Planning, Surat during the academic year
2023-2024.

(Prof. Alka Ar. Chaitali Shroff

Pandya) Principal
Assistant Professor Department of Architecture &
Department of Architecture & Planning
Planning

Date:

Place:

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

DECLARATION ........................................................................................................... 2

CERTIFICATE.............................................................................................................. 3

CHAPTER-I

1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 6

CHAPTER-II

1. Types of Surveying .................................................................................................. 7

2. Techniques of Surveying ......................................................................................... 7

CHAPTER-III

1. Survey Procedure..................................................................................................... 11

CHAPTER-IV

1. Survey Questionnaire .............................................................................................. 14

CHAPTER-V

1. Conclusion ....................................................................................................................... 16

2. References ................................................................................................................ 16

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LIST OF FIGURES:

Figure no. 1(Process of surveying) .................................................................................... 13

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CHAPTER-I

INTRODUCTION:
Surveying is the study of spatial data regarding locations on Earth's surface, which forms the
foundation of geographic information systems (GIS). Greater accuracy is usually needed when
mapping urban areas because high-rise structure stability depends on it. In order to measure angles,
azimuths, height differences, and distances on land, surveying techniques and instruments include
satellite remote sensing, terrestrial surveys, and photogrammetry surveying equipment. The
employment of satellites, global navigation satellite systems, and other cutting-edge technologies in
contemporary instruments has led to the widespread replacement of conventional surveying methods
with new ones. In the urban geodetic survey, a few examples of survey devices that have
significantly increased precision and measurement capabilities through electronic integration are the
total station, digital levels, GPS, and GIS. The data was generated with the GIS software SNAP 9.0
and the image processing under a few planning methodologies after which pixel values were
generated by 2 formulations. One is the lateritic formula and the other is the Modified lateritic-based
formula. In several specialized areas, surveys are especially pertinent to land use and transportation
planning. One essential part of the information needed for transportation planning is land-use
surveys. Travel is a so-called "derived demand which is only valuable when it makes it easier to
engage in other activities; it has no intrinsic value. Travel, subsequently, permits people to engage in
an activity at a site that is somewhat remote from their current location when it comes to passenger
transportation.

Surveys are a fundamental tool in urban planning, providing critical insights into the needs,
preferences, and behaviors of urban populations. By systematically collecting data from residents,
businesses, and other stakeholders, surveys enable planners to make informed decisions that shape
the growth and development of cities. Whether assessing current conditions, evaluating the impact of
policies, or gathering feedback on proposed projects, surveys ensure that the voices of the
community are heard and integrated into the planning process. This approach fosters transparency,
inclusivity, and responsiveness, ultimately leading to urban environments that better serve their
inhabitants and promote sustainable development.

There would be no need for travel if the activity did not exist or if it could be completed at the
person's current location; in other words, if there were no land-use activities, there would be no
travel.
There are 4 types of surveying and those are as follows;
1. Town/ City Survey
2. Regional Survey
3. National Survey
4. Civic Survey

Questionnaires are an essential instrument in urban planning and design surveys, providing a
structured and systematic way to collect data from various stakeholders, including residents,
businesses, and community organizations. They are designed to gather detailed information on a
wide range of topics such as demographics, housing conditions, transportation habits, environmental
concerns, and public opinions. By using questionnaires, urban planners can obtain quantifiable and
qualitative data that are critical for making informed decisions about urban development and policy-
making. One of the primary benefits of using questionnaires is their ability to engage the community
in the planning process. By soliciting feedback directly from residents, planners can ensure that the
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voices of those who will be affected by urban development are heard and considered.

CHAPTER 2

A. Types of Survey:
1) Town/ City Survey:

It concentrates on gathering information from locals in a certain town or city.

Frequently employed for evaluating community needs, urban planning, and local public services.
It gives information about the standard of living and particular problems that city people experience.
It is beneficial in helping city planners and local governments make defensible judgments.

2) Regional Survey:

It encompasses a larger geographic area, such as a collection of cities or villages or a particular

territory inside a nation. It seeks to comprehend social difficulties, economic situations, and
geographical patterns. It aids in locating regions that require development and regional
discrepancies. It is useful for organizations and regional authorities that concentrate on regional
development.

3) National Survey:

It includes the whole nation and gathers information from a broad range of people.
It gives a thorough summary of national attitudes, trends, and circumstances.
It is utilized for analyzing a country's general health, establishing national policies, and formulating
policies. It is Significant for national government agencies, scholars, and organizations.

4) Civic Survey:

It focuses on how involved and how citizens feel about public services and civic issues.
It gauges the degree of satisfaction with public amenities, civic engagement, and faith in the
government. It also aids in evaluating the success of civic projects and activities.
It is utilized by local authorities, governments, and civic organizations to enhance public services
and encourage civic engagement.

B. Survey Techniques Used in Urban Planning:

In urban planning, various survey techniques are employed to gather data and insights to inform
decision-making and development strategies. Here are some key survey techniques used in urban
planning:

1. Household Surveys:
• Collect data directly from households on demographics, housing conditions,
transportation habits, and local services.
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 • Provide detailed information about residents' needs, preferences, and behaviors.
2. Land Use Surveys:
• Document current land uses within a city or region, such as residential, commercial,
industrial, and recreational areas.
• Help planners understand how land is utilized and identify areas for potential
development or conservation.
3. Traffic and Transportation Surveys:
• Assess traffic flow, public transportation usage, and pedestrian patterns.
• Include methods such as traffic counts, travel diaries, and transportation modeling to
improve mobility and reduce congestion.
4. Environmental Surveys:
• Gather data on environmental factors such as air and water quality, green spaces, and
biodiversity.
• Support sustainable development and environmental protection initiatives.
5. Public Opinion Surveys:
• Gauge residents' attitudes, opinions, and satisfaction with various aspects of urban
life, including public services, safety, and community amenities.
• Often conducted through questionnaires, interviews, or online surveys.
6. GIS Mapping and Spatial Analysis:
• Use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to collect, analyze, and visualize spatial
data related to urban infrastructure, land use, and environmental conditions.
• Facilitate informed decision-making by providing detailed spatial insights.
7. Participatory Planning Workshops:
• Engage community members in interactive workshops to gather input on urban
development projects and priorities.
• Encourage collaboration and ensure that planning reflects the community’s needs and
aspirations.
8. Field Observations and Site Visits:
• Involve on-site inspections and observations to assess physical conditions,
infrastructure, and land use.
• Provide firsthand insights into the practical aspects of urban environments.
9. Census Data Analysis:
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 • Utilize data from national or regional censuses to understand population dynamics,
economic conditions, and social trends.
• Offer comprehensive demographic insights essential for long-term urban planning.

Land use surveys are essential in urban planning, especially in a densely populated and rapidly
growing city like Mumbai. Here are some specific techniques and strategies that have been adopted
for land use surveys in Mumbai:

1. GIS-Based Land Use Mapping:

• Utilization of Geographic Information Systems (GIS): This technology helps in
creating detailed land use maps by overlaying various data layers, such as residential
areas, commercial zones, industrial regions, green spaces, and transportation
networks.
• Satellite Imagery and Remote Sensing: High-resolution satellite images and aerial
photography are used to accurately capture and monitor land use changes over time.
2. Field Surveys and Observations:
• On-Ground Data Collection: Surveyors conduct field visits to gather firsthand data
on existing land use, building conditions, and infrastructure. This includes mapping
informal settlements, commercial activities, and public spaces.
• Verification of GIS Data: Field surveys are used to validate and update GIS-based
maps, ensuring accuracy and relevance.
3. Analysis of Municipal and Government Data:
• Land Records and Property Registries: Data from municipal land records, property
tax databases, and building permits are analyzed to understand land ownership
patterns and land use regulations.
• Urban Development Plans: Existing urban development plans and zoning
regulations are reviewed to align the land use survey with current policies and future
goals.
4. Environmental and Ecological Assessments:
• Green Spaces and Water Bodies: Surveys assess the distribution and condition of
green spaces, parks, and water bodies to support environmental sustainability.

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 • Impact Assessments: Environmental impact assessments are conducted to
understand how different land uses affect the natural environment and to plan for
sustainable urban growth.
5. Socio-Economic Surveys:
• Demographic and Economic Data Collection: Surveys collect data on population
density, income levels, employment patterns, and housing conditions to inform land
use planning.
• Informal Sector Analysis: Special focus is given to understanding the informal
economy, including street vendors, informal markets, and unauthorized constructions.
6. Historical and Cultural Land Use Surveys:
• Heritage Mapping: Identifying and mapping historical and cultural landmarks to
preserve Mumbai's rich heritage.
• Adaptive Reuse Planning: Surveying old and unused buildings for potential adaptive
reuse, contributing to sustainable development.
7. Transportation and Mobility Surveys:
• Traffic Flow and Public Transport Usage: Surveys assess the impact of land use on
traffic patterns and public transportation systems.
• Pedestrian and Non-Motorized Transport: Mapping pedestrian pathways and
cycling routes to promote sustainable and accessible transportation options.

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CHAPTER 3;

A. Current Practitioners & Frontières;

To help practitioners bridge the knowledge gap that arises when choosing a dynamic model, this
article compares many top urban land models that are either in use or in development that planners
and academics can use. To accomplish this, we must identify the six benchmarks listed below to
evaluate and categorize land-use and urban models:
1. distinct levels of analysis,
2. distinct spatial scales,
3. distinct temporal scales,
4. distinct spatial and aspatial dimensions, and
5. distinct planning tasks are the first six factors.
We intend to apply these models to specific urban issues by comprehending their features.

B. Survey Techniques Procedure:

Surveying is a fundamental part of town and city planning, providing critical data and insights
necessary for informed decision-making. The process involves multiple stages and techniques, each
tailored to gather specific types of information. Here’s a detailed explanation of the survey process:
1. Preliminary Planning
a) Objectives Definition
Establishing Goals: Determine what information is needed. Common objectives include
understanding population distribution, economic activity, land use, infrastructure status,
environmental conditions, and social services.
Scope and Scale: Define the geographical area to be surveyed, the level of detail required, and the
time frame for data collection.
b) Methodology Design
Survey Type: Decide on the types of surveys to be conducted, such as topographic, demographic,
land use, transportation, or environmental surveys.
Techniques and Tools: Choose appropriate tools and techniques, such as GIS (Geographic
Information Systems), remote sensing, field surveys, questionnaires, interviews, and existing data
analysis.
2. Data Collection
a) Field Surveys
Topographic Surveys: Measure land features, elevations, and man-made structures using tools like
theodolites, GPS, and drones. This helps in creating accurate maps and understanding the terrain.
Land Use Surveys: Identify how land is currently used (residential, commercial, industrial,
agricultural) through on-the-ground observations and satellite imagery.
b) Demographic Surveys
Population Data: Gather information on population size, density, distribution, age, gender, and

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other demographic characteristics. This is often done using census data, household surveys, and
administrative records.
Socio-Economic Data: Collect data on employment, income levels, education, health, and other
socio-economic indicators through interviews, questionnaires, and public records.
c) Environmental Surveys
Natural Features: Document natural resources, water bodies, vegetation, wildlife habitats, and
environmental conditions.
Pollution and Hazards: Assess pollution levels, environmental hazards, and areas prone to natural
disasters.
d) Transportation Surveys
Traffic Counts: Measure vehicle and pedestrian traffic at various times and locations to understand
flow patterns and congestion points.
Public Transit Use: Survey usage of public transportation systems, identifying peak times, popular
routes, and user demographics.
3. Data Analysis
a) Data Integration
GIS Mapping: Integrate various data sets into GIS for spatial analysis and visualization. GIS allows
planners to overlay different types of information (e.g., land use, population density) on maps.
Statistical Analysis: Use statistical tools to identify trends, correlations, and patterns in the data.
This helps in understanding the relationships between different factors.
b) Scenario Modeling
Future Projections: Create models to project future population growth, land use changes, and
transportation needs based on current data and trends.
Impact Assessment: Evaluate the potential impacts of different planning scenarios, such as new
infrastructure projects or zoning changes.
4. Reporting and Recommendations
a) Documentation
Survey Reports: Compile findings into comprehensive reports, including maps, charts, graphs, and
written analysis. Reports should clearly present data, methodologies, and key findings.
Public Presentations: Prepare presentations for stakeholders, including government officials,
community groups, and the general public. Use visual aids to make complex data more accessible.
b) Policy and Planning Recommendations
Strategic Plans: Develop strategic plans based on survey data, addressing issues such as housing,
transportation, economic development, and environmental protection.
Zoning and Regulations: Recommend changes to zoning laws, building codes, and other
regulations to guide future development in a sustainable and organized manner.
6. Implementation and Monitoring
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a) Implementation Strategies
Action Plans: Create detailed action plans for implementing the recommendations, including
timelines, budgets, and responsible parties.
Pilot Projects: Start with pilot projects to test new approaches and gather feedback before full-scale
implementation.
b) Monitoring and Evaluation
Progress Tracking: Regularly monitor the progress of implemented plans, using follow-up surveys
and data collection to assess effectiveness.
Adjustments: Make necessary adjustments based on monitoring results and changing conditions.

Fig. no.1: Process of surveying

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CHAPTER 4:

Questionnaire Used While Surveying:

Urban planning surveys incorporate a variety of question types to capture comprehensive and useful
data. These questions are designed to gather both quantitative and qualitative information from
respondents. Each type of question serves a specific purpose, helping planners gather a diverse array
of data to inform urban development strategies. By combining different types of questions, urban
planners can develop a well-rounded understanding of community needs and preferences, ensuring
that planning decisions are data-driven and community-focused.

Here are some common types of questions used in urban planning surveys:

1. Demographic Questions:
• Purpose: Collect basic information about the respondents.
• Examples:
▪ What is your age?
▪ What is your gender?
▪ What is your household income?
▪ What is your highest level of education?
2. Housing and Residential Questions:
• Purpose: Understand housing conditions and preferences.
• Examples:
▪ Do you own or rent your home?
▪ How many people live in your household?
▪ How satisfied are you with your current housing situation?
▪ What type of housing do you prefer (e.g., apartment, single-family home)?
3. Transportation and Mobility Questions:
• Purpose: Gather data on transportation habits and needs.
• Examples:
▪ What is your primary mode of transportation?
▪ How often do you use public transit?
▪ How long is your average commute?
▪ What improvements would you like to see in local transportation?
4. Land Use and Zoning Questions:
• Purpose: Assess opinions and preferences regarding land use.
• Examples:
▪ How do you feel about the current mix of residential, commercial, and
industrial areas in your neighborhood?
▪ What types of development would you like to see more of (e.g., parks,
shopping centers)?
▪ Are there any areas you think should be preserved as green space?
5. Environmental and Sustainability Questions:
• Purpose: Understand environmental concerns and behaviors.
• Examples:
▪ How concerned are you about local air quality?
▪ Do you participate in any recycling or composting programs?

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 ▪ How important is it to you that new developments are environmentally
sustainable?
6. Public Services and Amenities Questions:
• Purpose: Evaluate satisfaction with and needs for public services.
• Examples:
▪ How satisfied are you with the local public schools?
▪ How often do you use local parks and recreational facilities?
▪ What additional amenities would you like to see in your community (e.g.,
libraries, community centers)?
7. Economic and Employment Questions:
• Purpose: Collect information on economic conditions and job markets.
• Examples:
▪ What is your current employment status?
▪ How would you rate the job opportunities in your area?
▪ What types of businesses would you like to see more of in your community?
8. Quality of Life and Community Satisfaction Questions:
• Purpose: Gauge overall satisfaction with living conditions and community well-
being.
• Examples:
▪ How would you rate your overall quality of life in this city?
▪ What do you consider the biggest challenges facing your community?
▪ How safe do you feel in your neighborhood?
9. Open-Ended Questions:
• Purpose: Allow respondents to provide detailed, qualitative feedback.
• Examples:
▪ What do you like most about living in your neighborhood?
▪ What changes would you suggest to improve your community?
▪ Can you describe any specific issues you face related to urban infrastructure?
10. Behavioral Questions:
• Purpose: Understand the behaviors and habits of residents.
• Examples:
▪ How often do you visit local parks?
▪ Do you participate in any local community organizations?
▪ How frequently do you shop at local businesses?

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CHAPTER 5:
Conclusion:

In conclusion, surveying types and techniques are foundational to the field of urban planning,
enabling planners to gather essential data for informed decision-making. Topographic, cadastral,
geodetic, and construction surveys each serve specific purposes, from mapping physical features and
property boundaries to planning large-scale projects and ensuring construction accuracy. Techniques
such as GPS, total stations, aerial and drone surveys, and LiDAR have revolutionized the way data is
collected, offering greater precision and efficiency.

The surveying process, which includes planning, data collection, data processing, and reporting,
ensures that data is systematically gathered and analyzed for urban planning applications.
Additionally, the use of questionnaires is crucial in capturing the perspectives and needs of the
community. Effective questionnaires are designed with clear objectives, targeted at the right
audience, and carefully crafted to provide unbiased and comprehensive insights.

Overall, the integration of advanced surveying techniques and well-constructed questionnaires forms
the backbone of urban planning, facilitating sustainable development and the creation of responsive
and resilient urban environments. By leveraging these tools, urban planners can better address the
complexities of modern urban challenges and improve the quality of life for city residents.

Reference:
1. Richardson, A. J., Ampt, E. S., & Meyburg, A. H. (1995). Survey methods for transport planning (pp.
75-145). Melbourne: Eucalyptus Press.
2. Mishra, A., Agnihotri, A. K., Pipil, S., Gaur, S., & Ohri, A. (2024). Surveying techniques for urban
areas. In Earth Observation in Urban Monitoring (pp. 69-91). Elsevier.
3. Nallathiga, R. A. M. A. K. R. I. S. H. N. A. (2006). Development Planning or Development Control the
Changing Focus of Master Plan of Mumbai. Institute of Town Planners, India, 3(4), 28-35.
4. Silva, E., & Wu, N. (2012). Surveying models in urban land studies. Journal of Planning
Literature, 27(2), 139-152.
5. Varne, D. S., Sivakumar, V. L., & Krishnan, R. (2024, March). Research Analysis Conducted through
Sentinel 2A Data to Compare Two Indices to Enhance Detection of Lateritic Bauxite. In 2024 4th
International Conference on Data Engineering and Communication Systems (ICDECS) (pp. 1-5).
IEEE.

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