HYDROGEOMORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT OF THE LOKTAK BASIN, NORTHEAST INDIA: A GIS AND REMOTE SENSING-BASED ANALYTICAL STUDY

Abstract

The Loktak Basin, located in the state of Manipur, Northeast India, is one of the most ecologically significant wetland systems in South Asia. The basin encompasses the Loktak Lake, recognized as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, and supports a diverse range of hydrological, ecological, and socio-economic functions. Rapid land use changes, increasing anthropogenic pressure, watershed degradation, and climatic variability have significantly influenced the hydrogeomorphological characteristics and landscape development of the basin during the past two decades. The present study analyzes the hydrogeomorphological characteristics and landscape evolution of the Loktak Basin using GIS and Remote Sensing techniques. Multi-temporal satellite imagery, Digital Elevation Models (DEM), morphometric analysis, drainage characterization, and land use-land cover assessments are employed to understand spatial and temporal changes from 2000 to 2025. The findings reveal significant transformations in wetland morphology, drainage dynamics, landscape fragmentation, and watershed conditions. The study emphasizes the need for integrated watershed management and sustainable conservation strategies for preserving the ecological integrity of the Loktak Basin.