In the heart of Eastern India, the deltaic region of West Bengal is undergoing dramatic changes, and new research is shedding light on the geomorphic hazards that could significantly impact the energy sector and other industries. A study published in Discover Applied Sciences, the English translation of ‘Discover Applied Sciences’, led by Shams Quamar from the Central University of Jharkhand, delves into the critical issues facing the moribund deltaic region of Nadia district, encompassing the Hugli and Bhagirathi–Jalangi floodplains.
Over a span of 45 years, from 1972 to 2017, Quamar and his team employed remote sensing, GIS methodologies, satellite imagery, and historical toposheets to map out the shifting landscape. The findings are stark: bank erosion rates have increased by 15%, driven largely by human activities such as agricultural expansion, deforestation, sand mining, and alterations to riverbanks. This erosion has led to an overall channel widening of 8.7%, which, while seemingly modest, has profound implications.
One of the most alarming discoveries is the significant siltation in key river segments, which has reduced flow capacity by 12%. This reduction amplifies the risk of flooding, a critical concern for the energy sector, which relies heavily on stable river systems for cooling water, transportation, and infrastructure. “The interplay between natural processes and human interventions is creating a perfect storm of geomorphic hazards,” Quamar explains. “Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing sustainable management practices.”
The study highlights the urgent need for consistent monitoring and adaptive strategies to mitigate these risks. For the energy sector, this means investing in infrastructure that can withstand increased flooding and erosion, as well as developing water resource governance frameworks that account for these changes. “We need to think long-term,” Quamar emphasizes. “The energy sector cannot afford to ignore these geomorphic hazards. They pose a direct threat to the stability and efficiency of energy infrastructure.”
The methodological framework developed by Quamar and his team is adaptable to other riverine systems worldwide, offering a blueprint for assessing and managing geomorphic risks. This research not only underscores the importance of integrating remote sensing and GIS analysis with field observations but also calls for a holistic approach to water resource governance. As climate change continues to exacerbate these issues, the findings from this study could shape future developments in the field, ensuring that the energy sector and other industries are better prepared to face the challenges ahead.
For stakeholders in the energy sector, the message is clear: the time to act is now. By embracing the insights from this research and adopting sustainable practices, industries can mitigate the impacts of geomorphic hazards and build a more resilient future.