Assessment of flood susceptibility zones in Kabini catchment of Karnataka, India

Abstract

Using a geospatial approach, this study analyses the flood susceptibility of the Kabini catchment in Karnataka, encompassing 946 villages in Mysore and Chamarajanagar districts. By integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing data, and a variety of environmental and hydrological variables, the study aims to create a flood susceptibility map that serves as a tool for informed land-use planning, disaster risk reduction, and mitigation strategies. The methodology involves acquiring and processing both spatial and non-spatial data, followed by the application of Multi- Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) using a weighted product cum geometric mean approach to combine thematic layers such as average rainfall, rainfall-runoff, elevation, slope, topographic indices, drainage characteristics, and vegetation cover. The results delineate varying degrees of flood susceptibility across the catchment, revealing that 587 villages are classified as having low susceptibility, 163 as less susceptible, 116 as moderately susceptible, and 80 as highly susceptible to floods. The comprehensive analysis emphasizes the importance of considering multiple dimensions of flood risk, as these complex interactions between natural and anthropogenic factors contribute to flood vulnerability. This research underscores the importance of a multi-dimensional approach to flood susceptibility mapping, enabling better-informed decision-making and targeted interventions. The findings benefit local stakeholders and serve as a model for other regions facing similar flood risks, contributing to broader disaster risk reduction initiatives.