PLANFORM STUDY OF RIVER GANGA USING SATELLITE IMAGES

Abstract

Rivers are dynamic in nature and flows in channels which differ in planform both in space and time so it is the subject to the analysis owing to their remarkable forms, ubiquity, dynamism, and the practical concerns of their movement. Remote sensing satellite are very useful for the planform studies of rivers. The resolution of remote sensing images has been dramatically improved to fulfill the interpretation requirement. The rapid growth in developments in the field of infrastructure and planning in and around river banks have made river planform study an indispensable part of core planning of these project. Like all other topological features rivers are an ever changing phenomenon which has a dynamic influence over its basin. The planform of the river changes due to various influences and factors over a large period of time as a result the prediction of changes in the planform of the river is difficult and requires a thorough study of the various factors affecting the river. Time and again rivers have proved to be a vital source of livelihood and sustenance for all lifeform which have led to various civilizations come up and thrive on the river basin. Even today from agriculture irrigation to hydropower generation and inland transportation rivers have played a crucial role. These advantages of being in close proximity to the river has given impetus to various projects on the river banks. These projects range from civil works like bridges, barrage and other structures on the bank of the river to various resource infrastructure like hydro power-plants etc. These projects require river plan form study so that the planning of all these projects can include the possibilities of the planform changes of the river. Flood prone areas can be identified from the planform study and also used for various habitation planning and avoid rehabilitation of the population in case of any change in planform of the river or reduce damage in case of floods. This project will provide a novel approach in the perspective of river planform study and the prediction of the course of the river in the future.