Assessing the Channel Planform Dynamics of River Jhelum from Sangam to Asham, Kashmir Valley, Jammu and Kashmir, India
摘要
The alteration of the River Jhelum's course in recent years, particularly in areas characterized by lithological susceptibility, underscores the intricate geomorphic dynamics influenced by geological conditions. The river's tendency to shift its path can be attributed to varying lithological strengths, where areas with geological vulnerabilities experience heightened erosion and channel adjustments. The channel planform dynamics of the River Jhelum during 1992, 2001, and 2015 carry substantial significance. The temporal analysis across these periods provides insights into the river's evolution and allows for trend identification. The spatial deviation assessment, measuring changes, quantifies how the river has shifted, offering valuable information about geomorphic characteristics. The present study amply indicates that the Jhelum Basin has undergone changes over the 30 years between 1972 and 2015 and that its equilibrium is being disturbed continuously. The comprehensive temporal analysis of River Jhelum's planform and the sinuosity coefficients across different segments provide valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the river system. The observed deviations from the base map, analyzed from 1972 to 2015, reveal both stable and fluctuating patterns in various locations, indicating the river's adaptability to changing conditions. The sinuosity analysis further unveils spatial variations in meandering behavior along different segments, showcasing the intricate geomorphic dynamics. The analysis of floodplain distances along the river between 2001 and 2015 reveals a consistent trend of decreasing values for both the right and left sides. This suggests a notable shift in the river's course or floodplain dynamics during this period. The results from the study will be a step forward in framing policy and plans to reduce the flood risk in the valley.