Chinese scientists are developing a remote sensing information system which can be used to monitor the growth of crops and evaluate natural disasters such as floods and drought.

Scientists from the Institute of Remote Sensing Applications under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) have started a five- year research project on the system, which is composed of large amounts of remote sensing data and advanced computer network technology, and can provide information for a variety of uses.

The system will be used to monitor the growth of crops and predict grain output, and make quick evaluations of natural disasters which may affect grain, said Guo Huadong, director of the institute.

He said that on the basis of domestic grain-growth monitoring and output prediction, the system may also be capable of being used worldwide for these purposes.

Scientists at the institute have already made remarkable progress in using remote sensing techniques to monitor floods over the past three years, and have provided more than 100 flood reports to state organizations and local governments.

The Institute of Remote Sensing Applications (IRSA), established in 1979, is a comprehensive research organization conducting research on fundamental theory and remote sensing techniques and their applications. (Xinhua)