Mahendra Singh Nathawat

Bio: Mahendra Singh Nathawat is an academic researcher from Indira Gandhi National Open University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Glacier & Geographic information system. The author has an hindex of 17, co-authored 70 publications receiving 1068 citations. Previous affiliations of Mahendra Singh Nathawat include Birla Institute of Technology and Science & Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra.

A review of radar remote sensing for biomass estimation

Abstract: Forest plays a vital role in regulating climate through carbon sequestration in its biomass. Biomass reflects the health and environmental conditions of a forest ecosystem. In context to the climate change mitigation mechanisms like REDD (reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation), an extensive forest monitoring campaign is especially important. Remote sensing of forest structure and biomass with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) bears significant potential for mapping and understanding forest ecological processes. Limitations of the conventional forest inventory procedures, like the extensive cost, labor and time, can be overcome through integrated geospatial techniques. Optical sensor or SAR data are suitable for extracting information about simple and homogeneous forest stand sites. However, optical sensors face serious limitations, specifically in tropical regions, like the cloud cover that SAR can overcome along with targeting saturation and penetration aspects. Simultaneous use of spectral information and image texture parameters improves the biomass assessment over undulating terrain and in radical conditions. Also, synergic use of multi-sensor optical and SAR has better potential than single sensor. Interferometric (InSAR) and polarimetric (PolSAR) SAR or a combination of the both (PolInSAR) serves as effective alternatives. These techniques could serve as valuable methods for biomass assessment of heterogeneous complex biophysical environments. However, SAR data have its own limitations and complexities. Identifying, understanding and solving major uncertainties in different stages of the biomass estimation procedure are critical. In this regard, the current study provides a review of radar remote sensing-based studies in forest biomass estimation.

Waterlogging and flood hazards vulnerability and risk assessment in Indo Gangetic plain

Abstract: The recurrent flooding during monsoon and subsequent waterlogging in the northern Bihar plains and the magnitude of losses due to these hazards indicate the continuing vulnerability of the region to flood and waterlogging. Management of floods and waterlogging hazards in highly flood-prone regions of India, including Bihar state has been largely response oriented with little or no attention to mitigation and preparedness. This paper presents a method for spatial, Geographic Information Systems-based assessment of flood and waterlogging vulnerability and risk in northern Bihar plains. Multitemporal satellite data was used to evaluate the area statistics and dynamics of waterlogging over the period from 1975 to 2008. The flood proneness is evaluated at district level with reference to flood inundation during a period from 1998 to 2008. Census data were used to examine the socio-economic characteristics of the region through computation of population density, cultivators, agricultural labourers, sex ratio, children in age group 0–6 years and literates. The geohazard map derived by combining area prone to waterlogging and flood inundation was multiplied with socio-economic vulnerability map to derive the flood-waterlogging risk map of the region. The result shows that flood and water-logging pose highest risk to the central districts in the northern Bihar plains with 50.95% of the total area under high and very high risk.

Assessment of land consumption rate with urban dynamics change using geospatial techniques

Abstract: Land consumption is increasing rapidly with the exponential growth of population. The built-up environment configuration influences the management processes for development and other municipality works. Population growth also affects the availability of land for different purposes in its spatial distribution. The present study was conducted using satellite remote sensing data Landsat MSS (Multi-spectral Scanner), ETM+ (Enhanced Thematic Mapper), IRS P-6 (Indian Remote Sensing Satellite), LISS IV (Linear Imaging Self-Scanner), and IRS P-5 Cartosat-1 for the assessment of urban area change dynamics between years 1976 and 2008 in Bhagalpur city in the state of Bihar in India. The ground truth and coordinate points were collected using a Global Positioning System (GPS) for the location of the built-up themes prepared in the Geographic Information System (GIS). Land Consumption Rate (LCR) and Land Absorption Coefficient (LAC) were introduced to aid in the quantitative assessment changes. The results show a rap...

Fuzzy AHP for forest fire risk modeling

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of study is linked to management and policy‐making strategies, such as forest management, land use planning and sustainable management of natural resources It aims to help prevent forest fire by taking precautions It also aims to be helpful for authorities coping during the event of occurrence of fireDesign/methodology/approach – The methodology paradigm applied here is based on knowledge‐based and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) techniques Knowledge‐based criteria involve topographic and different themes for risk assessment The assignment of value given to equation is significant due to its importanceFindings – Results are in strong agreement with actual fire occurrences in the past years The risk zones are identified according to past occurrence of fire The gradients of low‐ to high‐risk zones are according to fuel, topographic features and weather conditions Direction and aspect value were taken accordinglyOriginality/value – The paper presents forest fire risk zones de

The state and fate of Himalayan glaciers

Abstract: Himalayan glaciers are a focus of public and scientific debate. Prevailing uncertainties are of major concern because some projections of their future have serious implications for water resources. Most Himalayan glaciers are losing mass at rates similar to glaciers elsewhere, except for emerging indications of stability or mass gain in the Karakoram. A poor understanding of the processes affecting them, combined with the diversity of climatic conditions and the extremes of topographical relief within the region, makes projections speculative. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that dramatic changes in total runoff will occur soon, although continuing shrinkage outside the Karakoram will increase the seasonality of runoff, affect irrigation and hydropower, and alter hazards.

Sustainable tourism in protected areas : guidelines for planning and management (Russian version)

Abstract: The link between protected areas and tourism is as old as the history of protected areas. Though the relationship is complex and sometimes adversarial, tourism is always a critical component to consider in the establishment and management of protected areas. These guidelines aim to build an understanding of protected area tourism, and its management. They provide both a theoretical structure and practical guidelines for managers. The underlying aim is to ensure that tourism contributes to the purposes of protected areas and does not undermine them.