Estimation of Soil Loss in the Nanoi River Basin using Geospatial Techniques

Abstract

Objectives: The main purpose of this research is to identify severe soil loss areas in the Nanoi river basin of Assam, India to suggest appropriate soil management planning in the river basin. Methods: The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) integrates geospatial technologies to assess overall soil loss in the Nanoi river basin which provides a faster and more accurate estimation. It is possible to understand soil erosion patterns more thoroughly using RUSLE which makes sustainable soil management easier. Findings: According to the RUSLE equation, the Nanoi river basin experiences an estimated total soil loss of 18,562.5 tons per year, with an average annual soil loss of 0.32 t/h/y. This suggests that approximately 0.64 km2 of the area falls into the Moderate, high and Extreme soil erosion sensitivity zones. Furthermore, a final map is generated to display different areas with varying levels of soil loss rates. Novelty: The geospatial approaches used produce precise findings at a reasonable price and demonstrate the severity of soil loss in the river basin. If soil loss continues at the current rate, there is a high likelihood that certain areas on both sides of the river, particularly in the downstream region of the basin, will experience fluvial hazards, such as drainage congestion and floods. Hence, the results generated will be helpful in the management practices of the river basin. Keywords: Soil loss, Soil erosion, Geospatial, Revised universal soil loss equation, River basin