Researchers at Nagaland University have highlighted the importance of using a scientific, geospatial technology-driven approach to address soil erosion in the hilly regions of northeast India. They emphasized that this approach not only helps in controlling erosion but also supports long-term environmental sustainability, enhances agricultural productivity, and improves water availability.
Soil erosion poses a significant environmental and ecological challenge in the eastern Himalayan region, impacting agricultural productivity, water resources, and overall ecological balance. Various factors like steep slopes, high rainfall, deforestation, unscientific land use practices, and human activities such as shifting cultivation and mining exacerbate the problem.
A study conducted by the university focuses on the Siji watershed in Assam, known for being highly prone to erosion in the Northeast. By utilizing the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) integrated with GIS-based modeling, the research evaluates soil erosion and sediment transport by analyzing factors such as rainfall intensity, soil characteristics, slope, land use patterns, and conservation practices.
The research findings, published in a peer-reviewed journal by Springer Nature, indicate that areas with dense forest cover and gentle slopes experience less erosion, while regions with steep slopes, croplands, barren land, and human disturbances face higher risks. The study suggests an Integrated Watershed Management (IWM) approach involving sustainable land use plans and mechanical and biological measures like contouring, terracing, and vegetation cover to mitigate soil loss and enhance water management.
The watershed-based modeling approach provides a detailed understanding of how natural and human factors interact within a specific drainage area. By identifying erosion hotspots and quantifying soil loss across micro-level units, the model enables targeted interventions in high-risk zones, promoting effective erosion control and environmental sustainability.
