Sensitivity Analysis of Erosion Factors: Insights from Models Applied in the Dwarkeswar River Basin
摘要
Soil erosion is a critical environmental issue that leads to land degradation, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased sedimentation in water bodies. This study evaluates soil erosion in the Dwarkeswar River Basin using three widely recognized models: the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE), Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE), and Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE). By integrating remote sensing data, such as SRTM DEM and Landsat 8 imagery, with field observations, the study provides a detailed spatial analysis of soil loss across the basin. The results highlight areas at high risk of soil erosion, enabling the prioritization of conservation efforts. While USLE offers a general estimate of soil erosion, RUSLE and MUSLE provide more accurate predictions by accounting for seasonal variations and high-intensity rainfall events. The sensitivity analysis conducted in the study reveals the most significant factors influencing soil erosion, including rainfall intensity, soil erodibility, slope length, and vegetation cover. The findings emphasize the need for targeted conservation practices such as terracing, contour ploughing, and reforestation to mitigate soil loss and protect agricultural productivity. This study contributes to the understanding of soil erosion dynamics and offers practical insights into land management, policymaking, and sustainable soil conservation practices in the Dwarkeswar River Basin.