Peace Operations

United Nations

This map was compiled to illustrate the risks from overbank and inundation flooding within the United Nations peacekeeping mission area of Timor-Leste. As part of the volcanic chain of islands comprising the Indonesian archipelago, Timor-Leste is characterized by steep-sided mountains, a monsoon climate, and subsistence agriculture. Unsound agricultural practices increase soil erosion, which in turn heightens the probability of flooding, especially during the rainy season. It is not uncommon in this environment to discover mountain side roads partially collapsed or completely washed away.

This map provides mission staff with a variety of information. Basic trip planning can be done on a day-to-day basis. For logistical assistance, it indicates areas where heavy vehicle traffic should be avoided or where road construction projects can be implemented. It also shows helicopter landing sites for both routine and emergency tasks.

GIS units in peacekeeping missions are often called upon to provide mapping support for a variety of projects. Traffic planning, military deployment, population censuses, election planning and results, security and evacuation routes and planning, and developmental assistance project planning are some of the mapping topics that often arise on such missions.

Courtesy of the United Nations, Department of Field Support, Cartographic Section.

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