Using two-dimensional numerical model for hydrodynamic modelling of a Western Himalayan Alluvial River Reach

Abstract

This paper assesses the variability and magnitude of flow regimes at ungauged sites of an Alluvial River Reach. A finite element numerical model (TELEMAC 2-D) was used to simulate the river hydrodynamics. The performance of the model is demonstrated by integrating it from January 1, 2001 to January 1, 2016 with a resolution of 0.22° × 0.18° covering the river domain. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to realise the effect of physical parameters along with the mesh resolution on the model output. The model was calibrated and validated using actual field measurements. The statistical results imply that the predictions of water depth and velocity at different sites in the river are in fine agreement with the observed values. Hence, the model succeeded in simulating the river flow for several periods for the reach.