Morphometric deterministic model for prediction of sediment yield index for selected watersheds in upper Narmada Basin

Soil erosion is common and has a wide range of spatiotemporal variability. It is crucial in determining sediment output, which is essential for proper watershed management. In this research, we propose morphometric deterministic models (MDM) for prediction of sediment yield index using morphometric parameters of 49 watersheds from Upper Narmada Basin of Madhya Pradesh state, India. For this purpose, Shuttle Radar Topography Mission generated Digital Elevation Model was used to extract and analyze 12 morphometric parameters including linear, aerial, and relief parameters. Principle Component Analysis has been applied for the most effective parameter estimation. The linear and nonlinear MDM were discovered to be suitable for the field of sediment research due to the high value of R-2 (over 70%). The sediment yield forecasting is critical for taking the appropriate management measures in the watershed to reduce the sediment load in the reservoir and extend the life of the structure.