Spatial Characterization of Land Use, Geology, and Hydrology in the Musi River Basin Using Remote Sensing and GIS

Abstract

The present study offers an integrated assessment of the physiographic, geological, and land surface characteristics of the Musi River Basin, a sub-catchment of the Krishna River located in Telangana, India. Using satellite imagery, GIS techniques, and Digital Elevation Models (DEM), along with the interpretation of topographic and thematic layers, including drainage, geology, land use/land cover (LULC), soil, and geomorphology, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of the basin’s physical environment. DEM analysis indicates a west-to-southeast flow regime with moderate to high relief in the upper and fringe zones, contributing to a dendritic to sub-dendritic drainage pattern. The geological framework is predominantly composed of Archaean granites, interspersed with localized quartzite and dolerite dykes, which subtly influence terrain morphology and hydrological flow paths. The drainage network exhibits moderate density and texture, reflecting a structurally stable landscape. LULC analysis reveals a dominance of agricultural land, open scrub, and rapidly expanding urban areas, highlighting increasing anthropogenic pressure on the natural environment. Soil types vary from deep black cotton soils in low-lying regions to gravelly red soils in uplands, with spatial distribution strongly correlated to geological and topographic settings. These variations significantly affect runoff dynamics, erosion potential, and groundwater recharge. Geomorphological features such as denudational hills, pediment plains, and buried pediments further modulate hydrological behavior and land degradation processes. This comprehensive spatial analysis, employing DEM-based landform characterization and thematic integration, emphasizes cropland dominance and the interrelationship between soil, geology, and terrain. The findings contribute valuable insights for sustainable watershed management, flood risk mitigation, soil conservation, and strategic land-use planning in the rapidly urbanizing Musi River Basin.