An assessment of the geomorphodiversity and land use/cover change (LUCC) effects associated with landslides in Meghalaya, India

Abstract

AbstractThe Shillong Plateau in the Eastern Himalayas is exposed to high seismicity, neo‐tectonic activity and orographic precipitation that aggravated landslides in the region by affecting hillslope processes. Landscape development is influenced by landslide phenomenon and depends upon geomorphic processes and geomorphodiversity (GmD). It is linked intimately with geomorphology, hydrology and soil type. This study uses a remote sensing and GIS‐based approach to assess the spatial linkage between GmD and landslide distribution in Meghalaya (India). GmD index (GmDI) is developed using geological, morphometric and geomorphological parameters and analysed with landslide distribution. The landslide distribution considering land use/cover change (LUCC) is also examined. The result shows that the region with high‐relief, valley and depression zone, mainly along the Dauki fault, have a high to a very high GmDI. About 61% of landslide localities are in zones of high GmDI, concentrated in the central and eastern parts of Meghalaya. Density analysis of the very high class (class 5) of GmD confirms the same. Most of these landslides occur in dense and light‐vegetated landmasses. However, the LUCC analysis reveals a significant increase in the built area on steeper slopes (average expansion ratio of 2.30 for slopes >15°) between 2017 and 2022, indicating a rising threat of landslides in urban areas of Meghalaya. The study presents the importance of GmD in active tectonic regions with particular reference to landslide potential and recent LUCC. It can aid decision‐makers in planning sustainable developments and risk mitigation strategies for landslide hazards and geoconservation.