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Kazakh International Journal of Geography and Environment

Formation and accuracy assessment of a GNSS/GIS basis for geodynamic monitoring of Almaty city

7

6

Farabi University
Abstract

Almaty is located in the seismically active zone of the Northern Tien Shan, where the development of engineering, transport, and underground infrastructure requires a reliable geodetic basis for regular control of the spatial position of the ground surface and engineering facilities. The aim of this study is to establish an initial GNSS/GIS basis for subsequent geodynamic monitoring of Almaty and to assess the accuracy of coordinate solutions obtained from one campaign of static GNSS observations. The study uses a GNSS network consisting of the reference station ALMA and the observation points CHIL, ESIK, FABR, and KGAI. The observations were processed in the South Geomatics Office software package using GPS, GLONASS, and BeiDou signals. The results of the three-dimensional network adjustment show that the root mean square errors of the observation points range from 0.004 to 0.010 m, confirming the suitability of the network for high-precision geodetic observations. The GIS component is presented as a spatial framework for mapping the GNSS network and for subsequent comparison of repeated measurements with a digital elevation model, fault zones, engineering-geological conditions, urban density, and infrastructure objects. Since the study is based on one observation epoch, it does not calculate actual displacement vectors or deformation rates. The scientific contribution of the study lies in clarifying the methodological role of a high-precision GNSS/GIS basis as the first stage of a long-term geodynamic monitoring system for the urbanized and seismically active territory of Almaty. Future research should include repeated GNSS observation campaigns, continuous monitoring stations, and the integration of InSAR and geological datasets to quantify deformation rates, improve seismic hazard assessment, support infrastructure resilience, and enhance evidence-based urban planning and disaster risk management in Almaty.

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