Land cover change dynamics of a Himalayan watershed utilizing Indian Remote Sensing satellite (IRS) data

Abstract

This study of an anthropogenically vibrant Sikkim Himalayan watershed shows rapid land cover changes within it. The area is a typical environmentally fragile terrain undergoing tremendous pressure on its natural resources. Considering the watershed as basic resource unit, the impacts of development are noteworthy. Indian Remote Sensing Satellite (IRS 1A/1B) data have been used in this study along with other collateral information for deriving land cover change dynamics. The variations over a period of four years on the classified land covers were determined. At level I, the land covers are forest, agricultural land, waste-land, water bodies and built-up land. At level II, forest has six, agricultural land has three and waste-land has two subclasses. Interpretations have been done using optical bands of IRS/LISS II sensor with good spectral resolutions in visible to near infra-red range and spatial resolution of 36.25 meters. Multidate single band as well as normal false color composite (FCC) scenes have been used. Ground-truth studies were done with suitable ground control points (GCPs). Remote sensing technique has been found cost-effective and less time consuming. This has provided much needed information for developmental planning in such a mountain environment. Sustainable development and environmental conservation strategies are perceived to be worked out faster and precisely for such inaccessible and difficult terrain taking cue from the land cover change dynamics.