Fluvial Geomorphological Changes in the Moribund Deltaic Region of Eastern India using remote sensing and GIS techniques

Abstract

Abstract The present study focuses on the deltaic region of West Bengal, which is one of the most dynamic natural regions in the state. The study area is a part of the moribund deltaic region of Nadia district. Bank erosion, channel shifting, siltation of channels, and the decay of oxbow lakes are common geomorphic hazards in the Bhagirathi-Jalangi interfluve and further south in the floodplain of the Hugli River. The study area is susceptible to various geomorphic hazards, including bank erosion, channel shifting, siltation of channels, and the decay of oxbow lakes. These hazards are prevalent in the Bhagirathi-Jalangi interfluve and the southern floodplain of the Hugli River. The primary aim of the study is to identify distinct patterns of fluvial geomorphic features on the floodplain using remote sensing and GIS techniques. For the analysis, data on river planform were collected from the Survey of India toposheets and a number of satellite images. Surveys were carried out to compare the present scenario with the past situation. The results revealed that fluvial geomorphological changes over a period of 45 years are considerably significant. Anthropogenic causes have a greater influence on changing the morphology and increasing the rate of bank erosion.