Assessment of Channel Morphology and Migration Dynamics of the Jhelum and Chenab Rivers in District Jhang Using Geospatial Techniques

Abstract

In alluvial river systems, riverbank erosion, channel migration, and deposition processes play a crucial role in defining land use patterns and forming floodplain landscapes. Using District Jhang as the study area, this study examines spatiotemporal changes in channel morphology, riverbank erosion, and channel shifting along the Jhelum and Chenab rivers. Geoinformatics techniques were applied to analyze Multi-temporal satellite imagery from 1992 to 2022 to assess morphological changes over 30 years. Channel planform characteristics, specifically sinuosity and centerline migration, were computed. The extent of floodplain transformation is determined by calculating erosion–accretion patterns. Significant morphological changes were shown in the river system. From 1992 to 2014, erosional processes dominated over depositional ones, resulting in a land loss of approximately 17,368.2 ha, compared to 4,728.01 ha of accretion. In contrast, the period from 2014 to 2022 indicates a shift toward sediment accumulation. During this time, erosion decreased to approximately 974.28 ha, while deposition significantly increased to about 7,659.98 ha. Spatial variations were observed in channel sinuosity: with the confluence zone showing a slight decrease in sinuosity, while increasing sinuosity in the upstream reaches of both rivers indicates enhanced meander development. The average migration rates of 36.59 m/year in the Upper Chenab reach, 17.66 m/year along the Jhelum River reach, and 38.18 m/year in the Lower Chenab reach disclosed a considerable lateral shifting in channel migration analysis. The results demonstrate the dynamic nature of the Jhelum–Chenab river system and its significant influence on floodplain development and land stability in District Jhang. The Integration of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies offers a robust approach for the long-term tracking of river morphological changes. It facilitates sustainable floodplain management and the development of erosion mitigation strategies.

Keywords: River migration, Channel morphodynamics, Jhelum River, Chenab River, Geospatial techniques, Sinuosity index, District Jhang, Bankline shifting, Remote sensing.