1.16 Applied Geomorphology

Case Study 1: Soil Erosion in Majuli Island, India

Models/Theories/Laws:

• Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) – Empirical model for soil erosion assessment.
• Fluvial Erosion Model – Riverbank erosion due to hydrodynamic forces.
• Geospatial Analysis for Erosion Mapping – Remote sensing techniques for soil loss estimation.

Recent Data:

• Majuli Island: Soil erosion categorized into five risk classes, with highest loss occurring along riverbanks.
• RUSLE Model Analysis: Rainfall erosivity, soil erodibility, slope length, and conservation practices assessed.
• Satellite Imagery: Identifies vulnerable erosion zones requiring immediate conservation efforts.

Spatial Variation:

• Riverbank Areas: High erosion due to Brahmaputra River dynamics.
• Central Island: Lower erosion rates due to stable landforms.

Temporal Variation:

• Historical Erosion Trends: Persistent soil loss over decades.
• Recent Observations: Increased erosion due to climate variability and land-use changes.

Source:

• NIDM Journal: “Soil Erosion Assessment Using the RUSLE Model and Geospatial Analysis”

Insight:

Majuli Island’s erosion patterns validate fluvial erosion models, emphasizing the need for conservation strategies.

Case Study 2: Erosion Control in Infrastructure Projects – Germany and Oman

Models/Theories/Laws:

• Slope Stabilization Techniques – Engineering solutions for erosion prevention.
• Geosynthetic Applications – Use of erosion control materials.
• Hydraulic Erosion Models – Water-induced surface degradation.

Recent Data:

• Germany: Industrial drainage expansion required steep slope stabilization.
• Oman: Al Batinah Expressway erosion control measures implemented.
• Geosynthetic Solutions: Secumat® used for surface protection.

Spatial Variation:

• Germany: Sandy subsoil requiring additional support.
• Oman: Expressway embankments exposed to erosion risks.

Temporal Variation:

• Germany: Long-term erosion mitigation through engineered solutions.
• Oman: Continuous monitoring of infrastructure erosion impacts.

Source:

• Naue Case Studies: “Erosion Control in Infrastructure Projects”

Insight:

Erosion control in infrastructure projects demonstrates the effectiveness of geosynthetic applications and slope stabilization techniques.