GPS Application and Research Program

GPS Usage and Research Program

 

Advancing Geoscience through Continuous GPS Research in Nepal

The Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) has been spearheading long-term GPS (Global Positioning System), conducting geodetic research through the installation and operation of a network of high-precision GPS stations and monitoring programs across Nepal for over a decade. This initiative is a part of NAST’s commitment to applying cutting-edge space and geodetic technologies to understand and address critical geophysical, environmental, and disaster-related challenges in Nepal.

At present, NAST has established and is maintaining 11 permanent GPS stations strategically located in areas such as Khumaltar, Kirtipur, Hetauda, Birgunj, Betalari (Nawalparasi), Kawasoti, Bhairahawa, Syangja, Damauli, Besishahar, and Ghermu. These stations provide valuable long-term geodetic data that help researchers track crustal shifts and measure the buildup and release of strain along fault lines. During the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, data from NAST’s GPS stations in the 85°E to 83°E region were crucial in documenting the earthquake-induced ground displacement. We have also installed 5 temporary GPS stations in Kathmandu Valley for the purpose of recording big seismic events; we are collecting ~72 hours data in a regular manner from these temporary stations. 

Objectives of the GPS Program

• Tectonic Monitoring: Track crustal movements and plate tectonics in the seismically active Himalayan region.
• Earthquake Risk Assessment: Contribute data for seismic hazard modeling and earthquake prediction efforts.
• Environmental and Climate Studies: Support research related to subsidence, and climate-induced landscape changes.
• Capacity Building: Train Nepali researchers and institutions in GPS technology, data processing, and geospatial analysis.

Our Works so Far

The Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), in collaboration with national and international scientific partners, has developed and maintained a robust network of continuously operating stations in the central region of Nepal. These stations are strategically located to monitor the country’s complex tectonic dynamics, especially in areas of high seismic activity.

These GPS stations collect real-time, high-precision geospatial data, which are critical for:

1. Tracking the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates that drives Himalayan uplift and seismic activity
2. Measuring crustal deformation before, during, and after major earthquakes, such as the 2015 Gorkha earthquake
3. Monitoring vertical land motion, including uplift and subsidence trends across various geological formations
4. Providing scientific data to support infrastructure planning, risk assessment, and disaster resilience strategies

To date, this GPS initiative has enabled NAST to contribute valuable data to national and international geoscientific research communities. Looking ahead, NAST plans to expand this network beyond the central region to achieve nationwide coverage. This will enhance spatial resolution, improve hazard forecasting capabilities, and support integrated geo-hazard risk management across all regions of Nepal.

Collaborating Partners and Institutes

1. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
2. EarthScope Consortium
3. Department of Geology, Tri-Chandra Campus

Team Members

1.     Ar. Kabita Pandey (Team Leader), [email protected] ; [email protected]

2.     Er. Hari Ram Shrestha, [email protected]

3.     Dr. Shiba Subedi, [email protected]

4.     Er. Samundra Kandel, [email protected]

5.     Er. Bibek Bishokarma, [email protected]

6.     Mr. Ramesh Gautam, [email protected]; [email protected]