Soil Loss Estimation using Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) Model for Palla River Basin, Assam

Abstract

Soil is an important asset both economically and environmentally, and its loss through erosion is one of the most concerned land degradation problems globally. To manage and control such international problem, estimation of its loss is mandatory. With the advancement of technology, tools like Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) is very helpful in solving such problems. The primary objective of this study is to estimate the soil loss of Palla river basin of Assam using Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model in GIS environment. For this study the data collected were annual rainfall data, Digital Elevation Model (DEM), soil data and Landsat 8 satellite image of 2019 year. Rainfall erosivity (R) factor, Soil erodability (K) factor, Topographic Factor (LS), Support practice (P) factor, Cover management factor (C) are taken as input parameters for the study. The annual rainfall data are used to determine the Rainfall erosivity factor and soil data for Soil erodability factor. For determining the Topographic factor DEM is used. The LULC map which is prepared through visual interpretation using GIS environment was used to determine P and C factor. Finally these inputs are used for analyzing soil loss using RUSLE model. From the analysis it is found that 77.45 % of area is under least soil loss risk area whereas 12.68 % areas are under high and very high soil loss risk area. So this model is very helpful in predicting soil loss in an area and helps the locals, government and other associated organizations to plan accordingly for future measures to be taken to reduce the loss.