Triggering of Land Subsidence in and Surrounding the Hangjiahu Plain Based on Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar Monitoring

Abstract

In the early stages, uncontrolled groundwater extraction led to the Hangjiahu (HJH) Plain becoming one of the areas with the most severe land subsidence in China. Since the beginning of this century, comprehensive measures have been taken to control the continuous aggravation of large land subsidence patterns in some areas; however, urban land subsidence issues, influenced by various factors, still persist and exhibit complex geographical distribution characteristics. In this study, we utilized Sentinel-1A images and the SBAS-InSAR technique to capture surface deformation over the HJH Plain in Zhejiang from 16 March 2017 to 20 January 2023. Through a comparative analysis with geological conditions, changes in surface mass loading, rainfall and groundwater, and land use types, we discussed the contributions of natural and anthropogenic factors to land subsidence. Augmented with optical remote sensing images and field investigations, we conducted a correlation analysis of the land subsidence status. The preliminary findings suggest that changes in surface mass loading and short-term heavy rainfall under extreme weather conditions can lead to periodic land subsidence changes in the region. Additionally, extensive infrastructure construction triggered by urbanization has resulted in significant and sustained land subsidence deformation. The research findings play an important guiding role in formulating scientifically effective strategies for land subsidence prevention and control, as well as urban planning and construction.