SPATIO TEMPORAL ASSESSMENT OF LULC CHANGE IMPACTS ON BASIN HYDROLOGY IN THE INDIAN UPPER GODAVARI BASIN

G. PATIL, R. KHERDE, D.J. MEHTA

Abstract


This study investigates the spatiotemporal dynamics of land use and land cover (LULC) change and its implications for basin-scale hydrological behaviour in the Upper Godavari Basin, Maharashtra, India. Multi-temporal satellite-derived LULC datasets for 2018, 2021, and 2024 were analyzed to quantify changes in major land-cover classes and identify dominant transformation trends within the basin.  The results reveal a consistent increase in built-up area accompanied by a gradual decline in cropland, indicating progressive urbanization and anthropogenic modification of the landscape.  Minor variations were also observed in water bodies, tree cover, and range land. These land transformations are hydrologically significant, as the expansion of impervious surfaces reduces infiltration capacity and increases surface runoff, particularly during the monsoon period. Simultaneously, changes in vegetation cover influence evapotranspiration processes, soil moisture retention, and the overall water balance of the basin. The observed trends suggest a shift toward a more rapid hydrological response, with potential implications for flood generation, groundwater recharge, and seasonal water availability. The study highlights the importance of integrating LULC dynamics into basin-scale water resources planning and watershed management strategies. The findings provide a scientific basis for understanding how recent land transformations may influence hydrological processes in semi-arid river basins and support informed decision-making for sustainable water resource management in the Upper Godavari Basin.


Keywords


Basin scale hydrology, runoff generation, Evapotranspiration variability, Watershed response, Remote sensing applications, Geospatial analysis.

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