GIS Based Spatial Modelling of Snow Avalanche Hazard along the North-South Alternative Road

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the potential of TanDEM-X DEM and geoinformation technology for mapping and assessing avalanche hazard along the North-South alternative road. This new 433kilometer long transportation corridor connects the northern part (from the Balykchy city) with the southern part (to the Jalal-Abad city) of Kyrgyzstan, separated by the Fergana Mountain range. The North-South road under construction should become an strategic automobile route between two parts of the country, an alternative to the existing Bishkek-Osh road, which passes through high mountainous regions. The existing road is subject to congestion and closures in natural emergencies, in cases of territorial disputes of neighbor countries, and affected economic development of the country. The road construction in the high mountainous areas requires a detailed study of all types of natural and man-made hazards and risk assessment. There are many road sections under potential hazards of avalanches, landslides and rock falls. Research and mapping of all types of natural hazards requires the use of modern engineering survey technologies, remote sensing data, geographic information systems and field research. Digital Elevation Models and Digital Surface Models have many advantages providing detailed information about the terrain's topography, which is essential for assessing avalanche hazard and risk. The TanDEM-X DEM gives detailed topographic information, including elevation, surface slope, aspect, and curvature used to identify potential avalanche release areas for assessing avalanche risk and implementing mitigation measures.