Sub-Watershed Prioritization of Kariangote River in Kerala Based on Drainage Morphometry and Geomorphology – A Remote Sensing and GIS Approach

Abstract

Objectives: This article examines the geohydrological behaviour of the Kariangote watershed and prioritizes its subwatersheds based on groundwater presence. Methods: Remote sensing and GIS techniques were used to study the morphometric and geomorphologic characteristic of the watershed. Six sub-watersheds were identified, and various morphometric and geomorphic parameters were calculated. Based on the relative importance to groundwater occurrence, sub-watersheds were prioritized by giving suitable weightage to morphometric and geomorphological units. Findings: Sub-watershed IV is the most deficit one and is given priority followed by III the next, V, II, I, and VI. Sub-watershed VI is with surplus groundwater and is given the last priority. Novelty: Higher priority should be given to conservation practices in sub-watersheds to prevent surface runoff and soil erosion and to increase groundwater levels. Sub-watersheds with highly permeable subsurface formation could be suggested for rainwater harvesting and artificial recharge of groundwater. Planning further groundwater development projects and managing watersheds would be aided by this study. Keywords: Morphometry; Coastal Alluvium; Flood Plain; Groundwater; Prioritization