The Implementation of a Hybrid Model for Hilly Sub-Watershed Prioritization Using Morphometric Variables: Case Study in India

Anurag Malik,Ozgur Kisi,Daniel Prakash Kushwaha,Anil Kumar,Zaher Mundher Yaseen,Nadhir Al-Ansari,Sinan Q Salih

doi:10.3390/w11061138

Abstract

Among several components of watershed prioritization, morphometric parameters are considered to be essential elements for appropriate water resource planning and management. In the current study, nine hilly sub-watersheds are prioritized using novel hybrid model based on morphometric variables analysis at Bino Watershed (BW) located in the upper Ramganga basin, India. The proposed model is based on the hybridization of principal component analysis (PCA) with weighted-sum approach (WSA), presenting a single-frame methodology (PCWSA) for sub-watershed prioritization. The prioritization process was conducted based on several morphometric parameters including linear, areal, and shape. The PCA was performed to identify the significant correlated factor-loading matrix whereas WSA was established to provide the weights for the morphometric parameters and fix their priority ranking (PR) to be categorized based on compound factor value. The findings showed that 37.81% of total area is under highly susceptible zone sub-watersheds (SW-6 and SW-7). This is verifying the necessity for appropriate soil and water conservation measures for the area. The proposed hybrid methodology demonstrated a reliable approach for water resource planning and management, agriculture, and irrigation activities in the study region.

Highlights

For proper identification and prioritization of areas prone to erosion in any catchment, the morphometric variables of the area are very important [1]
The feasibility of a hybrid approach i.e., principal component analysis and weighted-sum approach (PCWSA), was evaluated for prioritization of the nine SW of Bino Watershed (BW) located in the Upper Ramganga River catchment, Uttarakhand, India
The combination of PCWSA was successfully applied for watershed prioritization of nine SW of BW

Summary

Introduction

For proper identification and prioritization of areas prone to erosion in any catchment, the morphometric variables of the area are very important [1]. As per Youssef et al [2], hydrological investigations in a watershed are mainly performed using the morphometric variables of the watershed (linear, areal, and shape); they are important for studies on the conservation and management of water resources. Bagherzadeh [3] highlighted the importance of soil erosion information when formulating appropriate programs for land and water management to ensure sustainable agricultural development. Water 2019, 11, 1138 improving land productivity must be based on accurate erosion assessment information. It is, essential to check soil erosion risk in the regions. Balasubramanian et al [8] prioritized

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion