Understanding Geomorphological Dynamics of Suketi River Sub-catchments Based on Hypsometric Analysis in the Lesser Himalaya
摘要
This study examines the geomorphological dynamics (erosion status, geological stages of development and its effect on suspended sediment yield) of Suketi River sub-catchments in the lesser Himalaya using hypsometry. The analysis has revealed that all the sub-catchments are in a monadnock geological stage of development except Beena, which is in a late mature and near monadnock stage. The mean suspended sediment yield (SSY) and erosion rate have been found highest in Beena sub-catchment (5850 (t km−2 yr−1) and 2.20 mm/yr), followed by Dadaur (4311 t km−2 yr−1 and 1.62 mm/yr), Kansa (2030 t km−2 yr−1 and 0.76 mm/yr), and Raini-ki-Bain (1501.97 t km−2 yr−1 and 0.57 mm/yr). The computed erosion rates have exhibited a significant positive correlation (p < 0.01) with hypsometric integral (HI). Remarkably, erosion rates in all the sub-catchments have been found to be comparatively higher than in the other catchments of the lesser Himalaya due to increasing human interventions like, agricultural practices, and deforestation activities. Overall, findings of this study will be highly beneficial in implementing the soil and water conservation practices such as terracing, contour farming, mulching, bunding, agroforestry, waterways, retention walls, and gully control measures for controlling the erosion in the lesser Himalayan catchments.