Assessment of Changes in Brahmaputra River Course at the Pagladia Confluence Point using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques

Abstract

The river Brahmaputra is a large alluvial river that is prone to frequent bank erosion and channel pattern changes, leading to significant shifts in its course. This study aimed to analyze these changes along a 56-kilometer stretch of the river using a combined approach of remote sensing and GIS techniques. This study utilized USGS and Landsat 8 satellite imagery to map the river's channel configuration from 1985 to 2022, providing valuable insights into the river's morphology and the stability of its banks. Additionally, the analysis provided information on changes in the river's main channel which can help in predicting future behavior and mitigating the impact of these changes. The findings of this study have significant implications for river management, allowing for informed decision-making and improved strategies for protecting communities and infrastructure located along the river's course.