Abstract
This study investigates the application of 3D modelling to represent urban features in Indian cities, highlighting its potential in improving spatial understanding and data precision. With a focus on residential buildings, the research develops a robust framework for creating 3D models of varying levels of detail (LoDs) using CityGML as a standardized format. Utilizing tools such as ArcGIS Pro, Sketch Up, and FME, a LoD 3 model is successfully generated for a specific area, achieving a notable 91% accuracy upon validation. Practical applications are demonstrated through the evaluation of solar and rainwater harvesting potential within the modelled area, illustrating 3D models’ efficacy of in analysing real-world scenarios. This initial success suggests broader applications across entire cities d diverse building typologies, offering significant insights for urban planning and resource management in the Indian context.