Digital documentation and virtual representation of built heritage using terrestrial LiDAR

The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the oldest and most diverse heritages, must be meticulously preserved. We aim to utilize modern techniques and tools to conserve these extensive built heritage sites for the benefit of society and future generations. Accurate digitization through non-invasive and long-range imaging tools is essential for preserving and showcasing India’s heritage on the global platform. These advanced methods capture intricate details, ensuring precise documentation of geometric, structural, and architectural elements, thereby maintaining their historical value. In this study, we propose a novel approach to document a 125-year-old Indo-Saracenic building complex in the Madras High Court campus using advanced reality capture techniques, such as close-range photogrammetry and terrestrial laser scanning surveys. The three-dimensional model developed from these hybrid techniques enables as-built documentation and precise measurement. They also support the extraction of 2D drawings, facilitating the planning and execution of restoration works. Furthermore, the developed model is integrated with virtual reality techniques to create an immersive and walk-through model. The outcome of our work is an application that offers a virtual and interactive environment with digital datasets supporting the conservation, restoration, and management of built heritage structures and also promotes digital heritage tourism in the near future.