Advanced Remote Sensing versus Traditional Techniques for Reservoirs and Dams Monitoring: A comprehensive review

Remote sensing (RS) involves acquiring and analyzing information about a target, area, or phenomenon without direct physical contact. Satellite spaceborne and airborne sensors can capture spectral and spatial data for Earth's surface monitoring with high precision. In addition, photogrammetry is used for environmental monitoring, as it offers cost-effective and spatially vast data acquisition. These technologies make large-scale observations and analyses of infrastructure and natural resources with remarkable accuracy. This review paper assesses the application of remote sensing techniques (satellite imagery and photogrammetry), to monitor dams and the effect of reservoir storage on dams. It evaluates the advantages and limitations of various RS technologies on dams and reservoir monitoring. The review focuses on three main applications of remote sensing: structural health monitoring of dams, water quality assessment in reservoirs, and sedimentation tracking that affects storage capacity. The objective of this paper is to highlight how remote sensing can improve dam monitoring efficiency, reduce inspection costs, and support sustainable water management by synthesizing recent advancements and drawing conclusions on their practical value. This paper highlights the importance of remote sensing in enhancing dam management and promoting water resource sustainability by examining current advancements and challenges.