Landforms and Geomorphological Classification of Part of The Upper Baitarani River Basin

Geomorphological map is a very effective tool in management of natural resources and helps in various types of planning and developmental activities. In the present study, geomorphological map for part of the upper Baitarani river basin was prepared using aerial photographs on 1:25,000 scale, satellite imagery in the form of IRS-IA false colour composites, generated from bands, 2,3,4 and SOI topographic sheets validated by ground truth. Since large part of the study area is inaccessible, remotely sensed data have played an important role in detailed mapping. The study area is mainly underlain by Precambrian rocks. Quarternary and recent formations are confined mainly to the river valleys. The criteria adopted for the identification and grouping of landforms of specific genetic type are the overall appearance (morphography), the shape/surface geometry (morphometry). the underlying geology, relief forming processes, and association of forms. The landform units as identified and delineated on the remotely sensed data are grouped under two genetic types, denudational and fluvial. Ten landform units, each having its own features, were identified under three geomorphic domains viz. Hill, Piedmont and Plain.