In the heart of Johor, Malaysia, a critical water resource faces an invisible threat, and a team of researchers led by Mustafa Anjang Ahmad from the Center of Applied Geomatic and Disaster Prevention (CAGeD) at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia is using cutting-edge technology to uncover the culprits. Their focus? The Sembrong Dam, a vital hub for water supply and hydroelectric power generation.
The team’s recent study, published in *Jurnal Ilmiah SINERGI* (translated as *Journal of Synergy*), delves into the intricate web of surface runoff patterns and topographical data to map out the dam’s catchment area and identify potential pathways contributing to water degradation. By harnessing the power of Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) analysis, the researchers have created a detailed runoff map and digital elevation model (DEM) of the catchment area.
“This study is a significant step towards understanding the hydrological dynamics that impact our water resources,” says Ahmad. “By identifying the transit pathways that contribute to water degradation, we can implement targeted mitigation works to protect this crucial resource.”
The research involved processing satellite images to generate NDVI maps, which provide insights into vegetation health and density. High NDVI values indicate higher concentrations of agricultural nutrients, which can potentially trigger eutrophication in watersheds through surface runoff. The study analyzed a 66.89 km² reservoir catchment area, revealing robust vegetation in the dam-surrounded region with an NDVI value of 0.8. However, the northeastern region, with its narrow geography and deep lakes, was found to be slightly polluted and susceptible to algae growth.
The implications of this research extend far beyond academic interest. For the energy sector, which relies heavily on consistent water flow for hydroelectric power generation, understanding and mitigating water degradation is paramount. By pinpointing the sources of pollution and implementing targeted mitigation strategies, the lifespan and efficiency of hydroelectric dams can be significantly improved.
“This research is not just about protecting our water resources; it’s about safeguarding the energy sector’s future,” explains Ahmad. “By using remote sensing data, DEM, and NDVI analysis, we can develop more effective mitigation strategies that will benefit both the environment and the energy industry.”
The study’s findings pave the way for future developments in water resource management and hydropower sustainability. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the integration of advanced technologies like remote sensing and NDVI analysis will be crucial in ensuring the longevity and efficiency of our water resources.
In a world where water scarcity and energy demands are constantly on the rise, the insights gained from this research offer a beacon of hope. By understanding the intricate dynamics of our water resources, we can take proactive steps towards a more sustainable and energy-secure future.