GIS-based morphometric analysis with emphasis on hypsometric appraisal for sub-watershed prioritization: a case study of the Shyamari River Basin, Central India

Morphological attributes of a river basin are associated with the basin's shape, profile, network, and relief. Global environmental calamities have prompted a comprehensive assessment of river morphology and watershed management for sustainable development strategies. The Shyamari, a significant tributary of the Ken River in the Bundelkhand region, lies in the Yamuna sub-catchment of the Ganga basin. The Shyamari River Basin (SRB) traverses varied lithological terrain via the Bundelkhand Craton, Bijawar Group, Vindhyan Supergroup, and Deccan Traps. The present work focuses on the morphometric and hypsometric assessment of the SRB using remote sensing and GIS techniques. The work includes hydro-geomorphological investigations, such as erosion risk assessments, lineament studies, drought susceptibility analysis, and the inspection of sediment transport indexes, stream power indexes, and topographic wetness indexes. Morphometric and hypsometric studies show that the SRB exhibits a late youth stage of geomorphic evolution, with high discharge, limited infiltration, and high erosional capacity. Lineaments and drainage orientations demonstrate deformation control over the drainage network. Lineaments act as secondary conduits in hard rock terrain to enhance groundwater potential. Erosion risk and hydro-geomorphological assessment reveal that sub-watersheds in the northern part of the basin require more attention. The study provides valuable information that will be helpful in river basin management in the Bundelkhand region.