A Morphometric and Multivariate Analysis Approach to Prioritization of Sub-Watershed: A case study on Muzaffarpur District of Bihar, India

Abstract

Aim of the study: The goal of the present study, which was undertaken as a research, was to Prioritization of Sub-Watershed using Morphometric and Multivariate Analysis. Material and methods: Prioritization of sub-watersheds relying on erosion proclivity is critical in strategic planning when incorporating management practices, especially in vulnerable semi-arid regions. Geomorphometric as well as land use and land cover data sets are essential for determining sub-watershed priorities for integrated watershed management. Prioritizing watersheds entails ranking sub-watersheds according to their susceptibility based on several variables, including the average yearly soil loss, the depletion of water resources, and ecological deterioration. The final sub-watershed prioritization for our study area i.e., Muzaffarpur District, was determined by combining PCA (Principal Component Analysis) with WSA (Weighted Sum Approach). PCA was used to differentiate important parameters, whereas WSA was used to measure compound values for priority ranking, and to determine weights for significant parameters. Results and conclusions: PCA was effective in obtaining the most crucial values (i.e., WB, Dt, Re, and Rb). A load of each significant parameter was successfully defined by means of the WSA application. Compared to traditional prioritizing procedures, which use numerous criteria in a complex manner and presumptively contribute equally, PCA-WSA integration results in more dynamic, effective, and efficient solutions. The Muzaffarpur District’s decision-makers can apply this useful knowledge in establishing management methods that will reduce and perhaps even prevent land degradation.

Keywords

• geomorphology
• pca (principal component analysis)
• wsa (weighted sum approach)
• lulc (land use / land cover)