Assessing Geomorphologic Characteristics and Demarcating Runoff Potential Zones using RS and GIS in Patiala-Ki-Rao Watershed of Shivalik Foot-Hills, Punjab

Knowledge of geomorphologic characteristics is necessary for management of land and water resources in a watershed. These characteristics for Patiala-Ki-Rao watershed, located in Shivalik foot-hills of Punjab, were assessed using remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS). The form factor (0.27), circulatory ratio (0.53) and elongation ratio (0.59) indicated an elongated shape of the watershed, which might result in low-peaked hydrograph. Drainage characteristics of the watershed, namely drainage density (1.58 km.km⁻²), drainage texture (6.4 number.km⁻¹), mean bifurcation ratio (2.4) and stream frequency (4.36 number.km⁻²) indicated quick disposal and low retention of runoff. Slope was less than 10% in 21.04 km² (41% of watershed area), and 63.57% and 16.39% areas of the watershed were categorized as forest and agricultural lands, respectively. Furthermore, suitable runoff potential zones were identified by integrating thematic layers of slope, soil texture and land-use using GIS and multicriteria decision making techniques. The high, moderate and low runoff potential zones covered 13.74 km² (26.73%), 21.87 km² (42.55%), and 15.79 km² (30.72%) areas, respectively. The moderate to high runoff potential zones were mostly situated towards the upstream portion, whereas runoff potential was less in the downstream portion. Therefore, water harvesting and conservation treatment planning in the watershed is necessary for sustainable livelihood of the inhabitants.