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CDNGI Geoportal

How to Use the Interactive Map

The Interactive Map allows users to visually explore spatial datasets hosted on the CDNGI Geoportal, including aerial imagery, topographic maps, elevation models, cadastral data, and more. Each dataset is organized by geographic grid tiles covering Cape Town, South Africa.

Below are the main features and functionalities to help you get the most out of the map interface:

Searching by Suburb Name

To find spatial data within a specific suburb:

  • Click the magnifying glass icon in the top-left corner(under the location pin icon) of the map.
  • Start typing the suburb name (e.g., Constantia) in the search bar that appears.
  • Select the correct result from the dropdown list.
  • The map will zoom in automatically to your chosen suburb and highlight it with a red circle, revealing available datasets in that area.

Useful for quickly locating known suburbs without manual navigation.

Searching by Grid Number

If you know the specific map grid cell number:

  • Click the grid search icon (Looks like a hashtag symbol).
  • Start typing the grid cell number (e.g. 15723).
  • Select the correct result from the dropdown list.
  • The map will highlight the grid cell with a red circle and zoom to that grid cell.

Ideal for users working with referenced metadata or grid-based locations.

Viewing Grid Numbers on Hover

Hovering over a grid cell reveals its number:

  • Move your cursor over any grid cell to display its number in a popup.
  • Use these numbers for searching or matching datasets with metadata.

Helpful for identifying and referencing specific map areas.

Accessing Metadata Through Grid Clicking

Click on any grid cell to explore linked datasets:

  • A side pane will slide in from the right.
  • This pane lists dataset categories available in the selected grid, such as:
    • Aerial Imagery
    • Elevation Data
    • Beacons
    • TSMs
    • Lease Areas
    • Farms
    • Suburbs
    • Township Allotments
    • Streets
  • Click any category to jump to that dataset’s metadata in the catalogue.
  • From there, you can view details, preview data, and download files.

This seamless integration makes dataset discovery intuitive and efficient.

Using the Geolocation Tool

Find your current location easily:

  • Click the Location Pin icon (Looks like a upside down teardrop).
  • Allow browser location access if prompted.
  • The map will zoom to and mark your location.

Especially useful for field surveyors and mobile users who want quick access to nearby datasets.

Toggling Layers with the Layer Control Panel

Control which spatial layers are visible on the map:

  • Open the Layer Control Panel, in the top-right.
  • Check or uncheck layers such as TSMs, Beacons, Topological Maps, and DEMs.
  • The map updates instantly to show or hide selected layers.

Customize your view for focused analysis.

Navigating Back to the Homepage

At any time, click the CDNGI logo at the bottom-left corner of the page to:

  • Return to the Geoportal homepage.
  • Access other resources like the metadata catalogue or project background.

Quick and easy way to navigate back without losing context.

Using Zoom Controls

Adjust your map view with the zoom buttons:

  • Click the plus (+) icon to zoom in.
  • Click the minus (–) icon to zoom out.

Use these controls to get a better view of grid cells or specific layers.

Tips for Best Use

  • Note grid numbers displayed on hover to quickly revisit areas of interest.
  • Use the geolocation feature to find datasets near your current location in the field.
  • If a dataset seems missing, verify the corresponding layer is enabled in the Layer Control Panel.
  • Allow pop-ups in your browser to ensure metadata links open correctly.