Understanding the Morphological Behaviour of River Chenab: A Case Study
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Keywords:
River flow pattern Shifting, Tendency Erosion & Sedimentation, Damage of Spurs, Island FormationAbstract
Ongoing research focuses on the morphology of the Chenab River upstream (U/S) of the Panjnad
(PJD) Barrage, Pakistan, particularly addressing erosion concerns from Reduced Distance (RD) 50+000 to
30+000 along the Right Marginal Bund (RMB). A meticulous 18 km field survey, employing plane table
survey techniques, leveling tools, compasses, and plane table boards, aimed to map the terrain surrounding
the Right Guide Bank (RGB), Left Guide Bank (LGB), RMB, and Left Marginal Bund (LMB). The
topography, studied from the main weir, revealed islands near bay number 13–50 due to reduced Chenab
flow. Examining RD: 30+000 to 50+000, the section displayed braiding, sandbars, and sediment influx
during monsoons, impacting canal diversion and morphology. Despite previous interventions, including j
head spurs and mole head spurs, erosion persists along the Chenab's right bank. Sutlej-induced flooding
damages LMB up to J-Head Spur RD 5+500 LMB, threatening the upper curved segment of RGB. U/S
island formation obstructs the Annex weir, hampering PJD's discharge. A permanent island from RD
36+000 to 50+000 divides Chenab streams, posing an infrastructure threat along RMB. Addressing these
issues is crucial for sustainable river management and mitigating potential environmental and
infrastructural risks.
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