An integrated remote sensing and geographic information systems approach for the selection of water harvesting structures in Doon valley, Dehradun, U.P. India

Abstract

Remote Sensing and GIS were found effective in preparing and maintaining databases and carrying out analysis related to natural resource management. The present work is an attempt to build a micro level database using Remote Sensing and GIS technology as a significant step towards the site selection studies in watershed management. The advancement in Remote Sensing technology with the advent of Geographical Information System (GIS) made it possible for integrated study of the multiple themes to drive the required information in the desired format. Remotely sensed data can be utilised to provide information on space in a hydrological unit. There is a growing demand for the construction of water harvesting structures not only in drought prone areas but also in semi-humid and humid areas to meet the requirements of irrigation at critical stages for survival of crops and drinking water supply. The paper discusses the detailed procedure involved in an RS-GIS integrated study and demonstrates the integration of soil texture, thickness, landuse, slope of the area, for the selection of suitable sites for the construction of water harvesting structures viz., Bundis, Farm Ponds, Check Dams and Percolation Tanks and ground water recharge.