Karnataka 3D Scans Over 530 Protected Monuments for Digital Conservation

The Karnataka Department of Museums, Archaeology and Heritage has launched a statewide digital conservation initiative, using 3D scanning, geospatial mapping, Virtual Reality (VR), and Augmented Reality (AR) to document and preserve ancient temples, historical monuments, sculptures, and archaeological treasures across the state. Out of nearly 850 protected monuments managed by the department, over 530 have already undergone 3D scanning in collaboration with the Karnataka Science and Technology Institution.

The project aims to create precise digital records that will assist authorities in scientific restoration and reconstruction should heritage structures suffer damage from urbanisation, natural calamities, or other unforeseen threats. Alongside the 3D scanning initiative, the department has initiated a village-wise survey across Karnataka to locate and map unrecorded historical monuments.

Field surveyors are using a newly introduced mobile application named 'Puratatva' to conduct field surveys. The application records the precise geographical coordinates of monuments, enabling officials to locate heritage structures easily and monitor their ongoing conservation status.

Dr Smitha Reddy, Director of the Department of Museums, Archaeology and Heritage, emphasised the strategic necessity of the project. "Ancient structures can face threats due to urbanisation, natural calamities or other unforeseen reasons. If any monument is damaged, these detailed 3D digital records can help in scientific restoration and reconstruction by providing an accurate reference of the original structure," she said, noting that editing and processing of the scanned records are currently underway.

Following the completion of the scanning and documentation phase, the department plans to integrate VR and AR technologies. Officials will upload the processed 3D models onto the department's website, allowing researchers, history enthusiasts, and the public to virtually explore the state's historical landmarks remotely.

The implementation of digital documentation is already underway at regional centers, including the Government Museum at Shivappa Nayaka Palace in Shivamogga. Officials at the facility confirmed that 3D digital technology has replaced previous manual survey methods, with scanning operations currently underway for more than 750 historical artefacts in the district.

H C Kumar, Assistant Director (in-charge) at the Government Museum at Shivappa Nayaka Palace in Shivamogga, noted that the transition to 3D digital technology has significantly improved the quality and speed of heritage documentation compared to previous human-resource-dependent surveys.