Morphometric analysis of sub-watershed in parts of Western Ghats, South India using ASTER DEM

A morphometric analysis of the Palar sub-watershed, part of the Western Ghats in South India, reveals that the region's drainage characteristics are primarily controlled by slope and local relief, with a dendritic pattern dominating its stream network. The study, utilizing ASTER GDEM data and GIS tools, found a mean bifurcation ratio of 3.69, indicating structural control over stream development. Shape factors highlighted the elongation of the sub-watershed, while the relief ratio suggested high discharge capacity but limited groundwater potential. These findings provide critical insights for soil erosion and conservation planning in this ecologically significant UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sujatha, E. R., Selvakumar, R., Rajasimman, U. A. B., & Victor, R. G. (2013). Morphometric analysis of sub-watershed in parts of Western Ghats, South India using ASTER DEM. Geomatics, Natural Hazards and Risk, 6(4), 326–341. https://doi.org/10.1080/19475705.2013.845114