NIA uses 3D mapping technique in Pahalgam terror attack probe. How does it work?

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02-05-2025

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its probe into the Pahalgam terror attack, deploying advanced forensic tools such as 3D mapping. By combining technology with human analysis, the agency is creating a high-resolution 3D model of the site. The process uses LiDAR, drone surveillance, and photogrammetry to produce detailed and accurate visuals of the location read more
NIA personnel on their way to Baisaran Meadows from the Pahalgam Police Station in Anantnag district. PTI
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has intensified its investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack.
At least two men from Pakistan and one local were involved in the April 22 attack, which left 26 people dead.
Now, the agency is using advanced forensic tools, including 3D mapping.
But what is 3D mapping?
We explain how it works and why it could help in the Pahalgam terror case investigation.
What is the 3D mapping technique?
The agency returned to Baisaran meadow on Wednesday for three-dimensional, or 3D, mapping of the site, based on what witnesses had said, CNN-News18 reported.
By combining technology and human input, the NIA is building a high-resolution 3D model of the location.
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This is expected to help track every movement and bullet path linked to the attack.
Security personnel stand guard a day after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, J&K, April 23, 2025. PTI
For this, they are relying on satellite pictures, videos captured by drones, and information from families of the victims, pony handlers, shopkeepers, and others working nearby. All of this is being used to recreate a digital version of the scene where the Pahalgam attack took place.
The mapping process involves LiDAR, drone technology, and photogrammetry. These help create accurate 3D views of the spot, which investigators can use to understand the attack better and present clearly in court if needed.
Sources told CNN-News18 that the Pahalgam case is especially difficult because it targeted civilians and involves proxy warfare. Unlike the 26/11 Mumbai or Pulwama attacks, this case makes it harder for India to get a global consensus.
This is why the NIA is focusing on collecting strong, clear proof that can challenge Pakistan's denials and maintain international support.
The same technique was earlier used after the 2019 Pulwama attack to piece together what happened, how long it lasted, and where the attackers went.
Last year, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) used 3D mapping in another case, the RG Kar hospital rape case, to trace the steps of the main accused, Sanjay Roy.
Speaking to Hindustan Times, an officer said that 'the 3D mapping will provide accurate, graphic-rich visualisation of the attack site, which can be used while questioning hundreds of people without bringing them to the site and understand the exact location of everyone who was present that day, entry and exit points of the terrorists, and the radius in which the killings took place.'
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A senior officer, leading the team currently in Pahalgam, has questioned many people so far. These include known supporters of terror groups, pony service providers, local sellers, photographers, and those working in tourism activities, the report added.
CNN-News18 also reported that the NIA is checking the phone records of relatives of local terrorists. Searches are ongoing, and officials believe the attackers used dense forest areas to enter the Baisaran Valley.
Are Pahalgam terrorists still hiding in south Kashmir?
Sources in NIA told NDTV that the terrorists behind the Pahalgam attack are still believed to be in south Kashmir and have enough supplies to survive on their own.
They are able to stay hidden in the thick forests because they carry their own food and other essentials, which means they do not need help from outside.
This has allowed them to stay in the area for a long time without being detected.
The NIA formally took charge of the case five days after the attack. Its team had visited the spot a day earlier and started working with the Jammu and Kashmir Police on what is being seen as the deadliest civilian attack in the region in nearly two decades.
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Pahalgam terror attack
India has taken strong action against Pakistan following the attack. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 with immediate effect. It also ordered the closure of the Integrated Check Post at Attari.
The Attari-Wagah border connects Amritsar in India to Lahore in Pakistan.
Amritsar: An Indian national, center, reacts as he bids farewell to his relatives who are Pakistani nationals as the latter prepare to return to their country, at the Integrated Check Post at the Attari-Wagah border near Amritsar, Friday, April 25, 2025. India has announced the closure of the Attari border for all movement as part of heightened security measures following the Pahalgam terror attacks. (PTI Photo/Shiva Sharma) (PTI04_25_2025_000171B) PTI
New Delhi has withdrawn Saarc visa privileges for Pakistani citizens. Islamabad responded soon after by doing the same for Indian travellers.
Ties between the two countries, already under strain, took a sharp turn for the worse after the deadly attack in Pahalgam.
In Pakistan, those holding long-term visas, OCI cards, or 'No Objection to Return to India' stamps were stopped from crossing the border.
Matching India's actions, Islamabad shut the Wagah border, cancelled visas granted to Indian citizens under the Saarc Visa Exemption Scheme, and told Indian military advisers at the High Commission to leave.
With inputs from agencies