Land subsidence monitoring using InSAR technique in the southwestern region of Bangladesh

Abstract

Deltas like the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta (GBD) experience significant land subsidence due to overlaying load, consolidation, sediment compaction, regional tectonics, and human activity. The southwestern region of Bangladesh, marked by its low-lying floodplain with compressible sediments, experiences significant land subsidence. However, accurate assessments for these areas are very scarce, often focusing on the point-based measurements. This study employed Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar analysis, spanning from 2014 to 2022, to effectively measure land subsidence, and visualize it spatially. In the study area, subsidence rates were found to be ranging from 3 to 20 mm/year, with most areas experiencing 3-10 mm/year. While some areas show higher rates of 10-13 mm/year, very few exceeded 14 mm/year. The average subsidence rate was 5.98 mm/year, demonstrating significant spatial variability, with higher rates in Gopalganj, Patuakhali, Bhola, Barishal, and other areas. The findings were validated based on existing Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) data points, affirming their reliability. Despite minor discrepancies with other measurements at specific points, the overall results align well with existing data. This comprehensive analysis provides a detailed assessment of land subsidence in the southwestern region of Bangladesh, highlighting significant spatial variability and offering valuable insights for future coastal development and risk mitigation strategies.