Integrating Remote Sensing and GIS for Morphometric Analysis of Gadi Gedda Watershed, Vizianagaram District, Andhra Pradesh, India: A Comprehensive Approach

This book chapter presents a complete approach to morphometric analysis of the Gadi Gedda watershed located in the Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh, India. The study integrates remote sensing (RS) and geographic information system (GIS) techniques to assess the morphometric characteristics of the watershed. The main objectives of this study were to determine various morphometric parameters and analyse their spatial distribution within the watershed. The RS data utilized in this research included high-resolution satellite imagery and digital elevation models (DEM). The image was processed and classified to identify land cover information, which was further utilized for identifying distinct classes within the watershed. The DEM data were processed to extract various morphometric parameters, including drainage network, watershed boundaries, stream order, stream length, and slope. The GIS platform facilitated the integration and analysis of the RS data. The morphometric parameters were computed using GIS tools, and their spatial distribution was visualized using thematic maps. Furthermore, statistical analysis was conducted to quantify the morphometric characteristics and assess their relationships. The results of the study revealed significant variations in morphometric parameters within the Gadi Gedda watershed. The drainage network had hierarchical patterns, with variations in stream orders and lengths. The watershed had varying degrees of elongation, indicating its shape. Additionally, slope analysis indicated variations in terrain steepness and the potential for surface runoff. The integrated approach of RS and GIS proved to be highly effective in conducting a comprehensive morphometric analysis of the Gadi Gedda watershed. The findings provide valuable insights into the watershed's hydrological behaviour, which can aid in land and water resource management, flood mitigation, and sustainable development planning. This study serves as a reference for future research endeavours aimed at understanding and managing watersheds using RS and GIS techniques.