Hydrological dynamics and morphological physiognomies of Dzüdza River, Nagaland, India: A Geographical Information System‐based quantification of drainage morphometry

Abstract The assessment of the morphometric characteristics of the Dzüdza River basin in Nagaland has been critically important for hydrological analysis, flood risk assessment, soil erosion evaluation, and sustainable regional development, owing to its strategic location on the northern fringes of the Himalayas and flanked by hills to the east. In this mountainous region, the topographical changes with the growing impacts of climate change can significantly impact the river systems and intensify the occurrence of extreme hydrological events. The objective of the present research work is to quantify the drainage morphometry using geoprocessing techniques. The 30 m spatial resolution Cartosat Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was analyzed in ArcGIS environment to delineate the sub‐catchments/catchments and extract the stream networks. Nine sub‐catchments (SC 1–SC 9) and a main catchment (MC) were delineated to assess the morphometric parameters. The following morphometric aspects are derived: drainage network analysis, basin geometry, drainage texture, and relief characteristics. Two prominent drainage patterns, that is, dendritic and trellis patterns, are identified. Most of the parameters analyzed have indicated SCs (3, 5, and 8) with higher mean discharge, mean annual runoff, higher peak flow for shorter periods of time and high runoff, consequently, making it vulnerable to flash floods. However, SCs (1, 2, 7, and 9) are predicted to exhibit higher susceptibility to sheet erosion. The relief characteristics suggest a rugged as well as highly dissected landscape with the presence of steep slopes and strong relief. The hypsometric integral (0.46) indicates that erosional progress is at an equilibrium stage. The use of Cartosat DEM and Geographical Information System application has proven its efficiency and reliability in the assessment of morphometric parameters of Dzüdza River and comprehending the hydrological dynamics and morphological physiognomies. The outcomes from this study provide valuable insights for adapting to the varying climate and building a more resilient river system in the Himalayan region.