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Terrain evaluation through the assessment of geomorphometric parameters using DEM and GIS: case study of two major sub-watersheds in Attapady, South India

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Abstract

Spatial pattern of geomorphometric parameters of two sub-watersheds in the Attapady valley, Kerala, is evaluated using the Geographical Information System. Both the aspatial and spatial morphometric and hypsometric measurements of the sub-watershed are compared. The analysis of geomorphometric parameters coupled with DEM and GIS suggests that the two sub-watersheds are structurally complex with high relief and the denuded hills are undergoing severe soil erosion. Terrain analysis enables evaluation of landform changes in the two sub-watersheds which indicate differences in the denudational history of adjoining watersheds. It is demonstrated that the domainal variations in the lithology and structural complexity are reflected in differences in the denudational history which in turn is manifested in the geomorphic parameters. The study also helps in developing functional relationships between geomorphometric parameters and hydrological variables.

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Acknowledgements

The paper is a contribution of the Centre for Geoinformation Science and Technology, a joint venture of the University of Kerala, DST and KSCSTE. Financial support from DST and KSCSTE is gratefully acknowledged. The authors are thankful to the anonymous reviewers for their creative comments and suggestions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Centre for Geoinformation Science and Technology, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, 695 581

    V. Prasannakumar, H. Vijith & N. Geetha

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  1. V. Prasannakumar
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  2. H. Vijith
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  3. N. Geetha
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Correspondence to V. Prasannakumar.

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Prasannakumar, V., Vijith, H. & Geetha, N. Terrain evaluation through the assessment of geomorphometric parameters using DEM and GIS: case study of two major sub-watersheds in Attapady, South India. Arab J Geosci 6, 1141–1151 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12517-011-0408-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12517-011-0408-2

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