CS(AR)-205 : Land use/land cover mapping of Baira nalla sub-catchment above Tissa (H.P.)

Abstract

Land use/land cover exerts considerable influence in determining various hydrological phenomena such as infiltration, overland flow. evaporation and interception. Various aspects of hydrologic studies can be undertaken if information on land use/land cover are available. In the present study land use land cover map of Baira nalla sub catchment above Tissa (HP) has been prepared using false colour composite of IRS-1B (LISS-II) data for the period of 13th October, 1993. The Survey of India Topographical maps and photographs were used as ancillary information in the present study. The satellite imageries have been visually interpreted based on vinous aspects of image interpretation for remotely sensed data.

Five land use/land covers could be deciphered in the present study. These are agricultural land, forest, barren/rocky land. Degraded/scrub land and perennial snow. The present study have showed that total sub catchment area accounts for 38.15% agricultural land, 33.39% forest land. 17.23% barren/ rocky land, 10.77% degraded/ scrub land and 0.45% perennial snow. It is evident that major area in the sub catchment is under agricultural activities. Severe land slips and erosion problems are dominating in the study area. Land degradation is due to biotic and abiotic disturbances caused to forested lands.

The study has showed that there exist a wide scope for undertaking hydrological studied in the area. Watershed management programmes should be implemented to conserve the soil and water resources of the region for sustained productivity to assure a sound socio- economic development of the people in this area.