A GIS based study on bank erosion by the river Brahmaputra around Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India

Kaziranga National Park, home to the world's largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses and a rich biodiversity, has experienced significant land loss due to bank erosion by the Brahmaputra River. A GIS-based study revealed that from 1912–1916 to 2008, the park lost 88.188 km² of area, with erosion outpacing sediment deposition in all studied periods (1912–1972, 1972–1998, and 1998–2008). The highest erosion rates were observed between 1972 and 1998 (1.59 km²/year), while the maximum bankline shifts reached 4.58 km during 1912–1972. Loose, non-cohesive sediments along the riverbanks, combined with the river's braided course, were identified as primary causes of erosion. The study suggests future deposition may increase in the park's eastern part, while middle regions face continued erosion risk. Antierosion measures have been implemented only sporadically.

Sarma, J. N., & Acharjee, S. (2012). A GIS based study on bank erosion by the river Brahmaputra around Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India. https://doi.org/10.5194/esdd-3-1085-2012