STUDY OF DRAINAGE SYSTEM AND ITS HYDROLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS USING GEO-SPATIAL TECHNIQUES: A MORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS IN MUTHUGAD WATERSHED OF GRAHWAL HIMALYA, UTTARAKHAND

Measurements of the shape or geometry of any natural form, including those of plants, animals, and relief features, are referred to as morphometry. Morphometry is the accurate measurement of landforms. One of the crucial requirements for effective management and planning of water resources within the watershed is an understanding of the behavior of the surface drainage network. In order to comprehend and interpret the dynamics of the watersheds drainage system and to understand the drainage network features, morphometric study of a watershed is a vital stage in watershed development and management. Watershed characterization includes morphometry as a key component. Aspects that are dimensional, aerial, and relief are typically present for the conservation of surface and ground water, watershed development and management strategies are crucial. Applying mathematical equations and statical measures to data from topographic maps and satellite images, morphometric attributes reflect a measurement of the earths surface and are processed in accordance with the principles of quantitative analysis. A study of drainage morphometry and its impact on the hydrology of the Mathugad watershed, Grahwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand (India) has been made. Total basin covers 77.12 sq km area. Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) data and on 1:50000 scale and Survey of India Toposheet as reference were utilized to create slope maps, aspect grids, and digital elevation models (DEMs) for the thorough investigation. Geographic information systems (GIS) were employed to assess the linear, areal, and relief aspects of the morphometric parameters. Numerous morphometric features of the Mathugad watershed have been intended by applying GIS techniques and using SRTM data. The research shows that the rainfall has a moderate to large impact on how stream segments develop in the basin area thrusting and faultings controlling influence is primarily responsible for the basins elongated structure. Relief ratio indicates that the discharge capability of these watersheds is very high and the groundwater potential is meager. Dendritic drainage pattern in the area shows that the area consists of homogeneous rock material which is structurally undisturbed. Form factor and circulatory ratio statics indicates basin shape is elongated the results clearly indicate relations among various morphometric attributes of the basin and help to understand their role in sculpturing the surface of the region. These studies are very useful for planning rainwater harvesting and watershed management.