Contact: Submission #8883

MessageRespected Madam/Sir,

I hope this message finds you well.

My name is Waquar Ul Islam, and I recently completed my MS(R) in Disaster Management and Risk Reduction at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati. Currently in Muscat Oman.I also hold a PG Diploma in Remote Sensing & GIS from Indian Institute of Remote Sensing- Indian Space Research Organisation (IIRS-ISRO).

I am currently extending my academic research into a humanitarian, non-commercial project focused on improving impact-based forecasting and early warning systems for cyclones in Oman.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/140MKvPOCwOQUC1Hbv0LpsOLt-uGxAjqJ/view?usp=drivesdk

The study aims to analyze terrain-driven flood behaviour, exposure of built-up areas, and evacuation accessibility during extreme events similar to Cyclone Shaheen (2021). The outcome is intended to support government agencies, early warning authorities, and national resilience planning, with the broader goal of protecting lives, critical infrastructure, and communities in Oman.

To carry out this work with the required spatial accuracy, I kindly request access to the following datasets for the region extending from Muscat to Shinas: link to shape file of Area of interest https://drive.google.com/file/d/1w2wqLF8Gx-DAyMVl6iWVG5nfwkU6agDJ/view?usp=drivesdk

1. Digital Elevation Model (DEM)
2. Digital Surface Model (DSM)
3. Road Network (primary and secondary roads)
4.Hydrology / Wadi Network (rivers, wadis, drainage lines)
5. Building Footprints (for exposure and impact analysis)

These datasets will be used strictly for humanitarian and academic purposes. The research is non-commercial, and no data will be shared or redistributed. Full acknowledgment and citation will be provided in all analyses, reports, and publications exactly as per NSGIA guidelines. I am also willing to work together with NSGIA if you deem it fit.

The findings of this project—including hazard maps, risk insights, and methodology—can be made available to relevant Omani government entities to support their planning and resilience activities.

Please let me know if there is any documentation required from my side. I will be happy to provide all necessary details.

Thank you very much for your consideration and support. Access to these datasets will significantly enhance the scientific value and societal impact of this research in Oman.

Warm regards,
Waquar Ul Islam
MS(R), Disaster Management & Risk Reduction (IIT Guwahati)

Email: waquarulislam@gmail.com
Github | linkedin.com/in/waquar-ul-islam
Phone: +968-90704954 (Oman) / +91-7004011059 (India)