Pre-Dredging Bathymetry Survey –
Bar Al Jissah

Bathymetry Survey for Dredging Operations –
Bar Al Jissah

GIS Mappers successfully conducted a pre-dredging bathymetric survey in Bar Al Jissah, Oman, on behalf of Marine Technology. This survey aimed to determine the seabed profile along the proposed dredging zone in Masira Port, providing baseline hydrographic data for planning and operational safety. The survey supported the client’s objective of evaluating seabed conditions prior to excavation and marine development activities.

The survey was conducted using an Odom Echotrac MKIII dual frequency echo sounder (210/33 kHz), along with a transducer and Valeport tide gauge for tidal referencing. Sokkia RTK GPS and Total Station were used for precise geolocation and control. Bathymetric data were collected at 20-meter line intervals, ensuring thorough coverage of the dredging corridor. The hemisphere DGPS navigation system, integrated with HydroPro software, converted real-time GPS data into UTM coordinates.

Bar checks and CTD calibrations were conducted daily before field operations began, ensuring consistency in sound velocity and transducer calibration. Vertical references were tied to Chart Datum (CD), while positioning adhered to WGS84 coordinate system within UTM Zone 40Q.

The processed bathymetric chart was delivered at 1:2500 scale, highlighting the variable seabed conditions. The survey area featured irregular bottom morphology with shallow profiles. Exposed rocks and sandbars were observed, particularly during low tide near the survey centerline—key factors for the upcoming dredging operations.

GIS Mappers’ efficient execution of this pre-dredging bathymetric survey contributed crucial geospatial data for Marine Technology’s planning and sediment volume calculations, facilitating safe and environmentally compliant dredging in the Bar Al Jissah region.