Morphometric Analysis of Parvati Basin, NW Himalaya: A Remote Sensing and GIS Based Approach

Abstract

Abstract Morphometry is a quantitative approach of analysing linear, areal and relief parameters to understand the role of neotectonic activity in geomorphologic evolution of a river basin. In the present study multi-disciplinary integrated approach using morphometric parameters along with remote sensing and GIS technique have been applied for determining the quantitative parameters indicative of neotectonic activity in the Parvati basin, Higher Himalaya. The lineament pattern observed in the basin shows major trend in NE-SW followed by NW-SE and NNE-SSW directions. The basin is a 6th order drainage basin with dominating dendratic – trellis drainage pattern having very strong structural/tectonic control and is in its late youth stage of geomorphic development. Parvati basin shows coarse drainage density with fine texture suggesting more surface runoff and less infiltration in the area. The basin is highly elongated in shape tapering towards the south-west with high susceptibility to erosion with lower peak flow for longer duration. The above observations clearly indicate a tectonic and lithological control over the evolution of drainage pattern of Parvati basin.