Land transform and its consequences due to the route change of the Brahmaputra River in Bangladesh

ABSTRACT This study attempts to analyse the historical records and satellite images, and determines the dynamic morphological changes using Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques in order to delineate the paleo-course and the dimensions of the Brahmaputra River. Additionally, land transformations due to route change from Old Brahmaputra-Meghna to Jamuna River were also evaluated. The study revealed that owing to the route changes, the Jamuna River grabbed about 2817 km2 of invaluable land resources that were well developed. Whereas Brahmaputra-Meghna river course was associated with ∼4563 km2 newly developed lands which are currently being used for settlement, business, and agricultural purposes. Thus, if the river system changes its route again and follows the former path, the lands associated with the Brahmaputra-Meghna river course may again be scoured by the river. Hence, it is suggested that the necessary preparations should be adopted to maintain the current flow of the Brahmaputra through the Jamuna River which may help to protect the newly developed landmasses. Since the present route is straighter than the old Brahmaputra course, it would be easier to manage and maintain the current route of the Brahmaputra via the Jamuna River. Finally, a sustainable river basin management approach may be lucrative for both local as well as international communities.