Land Use Patterns and Land Cover Change

The land use pattern in the Central Himalaya exhibits distinct characteristics owing to varied topographies. Rapid changes in land cover are being witnessed, driven by multiple factors such as climate change, escalating natural hazards, diminishing forested areas, growing population, and increased human mobility. This chapter delves into the specific land use patterns in Garhwal, Kumaon, hills, and plain regions, offering separate descriptions for each. Additionally, the transformations in land cover between 2011–12 and 2018–19 are elucidated, revealing a significant and irregular shift in land cover during this period.