Watershed prioritization based on morphometric analysis in Kandi region of Punjab using geospatial technology

Abstract

In this study morphometric analysis of eight watersheds of the Kandi region of Punjab, India was done using remote sensing (RS) and geographical information system (GIS). On the basis of the morphometric analysis, prioritizations of the watersheds for the application of soil and water conservation (SWC) measures and preparation of watershed plan was carried out. The study included computation of linear parameters (stream order, stream length, bifurcation ratio etc.), areal parameters (drainage density, stream frequency, texture ratio, length of overland flow etc.), shape parameters (form factor, circulatory ratio, elongation ratio etc.) and relief parameters (relief, relief ratio, ruggedness number etc.). The other watershed parameters like relative perimeter (P ), rel Mean basin width (W ), Fitness ratio (R ), Lemniscate ratio (K), Hypsometric integral mb f (HI), RHO coefficient (ρ), Drainage intensity (D ), Drainage texture (D ), Infiltration i t number (I ) and Melton ruggedness number (M ) were estimated for the assessment of n Rn the soil erosion in the watersheds. The Simbal Mazara, Lalpur, Ballowal Saunkhari, Dohali and Fatepur watersheds are having fifth order stream network. The priority rank for each watershed was assigned using compound factor value. The results of this analysis illustrated that Lalpur watershed has lowest compound parameter value so it is subjected to more erosion hence first priority is given to this watershed for the application of appropriate SWC measures for its development and management. Then Sahungra, Rakran Dahan and Dobhali watersheds needs immediate attention for the application of the SWC measures because Sahungra watershed was given second and Rakran Dahan and Dobhali watersheds were given third priority for its development and management.