Assessment of landuse/landcover change analysis in the lower Kumaon region of the Uttarakhand Himalayas

Abstract

This study investigates landuse and landcover changes in the lower Kumaon region which consists of Nainital, Champawat and Udham Singh Nagar district of the Kumaon Himalayas. Utilizing remote sensing and GIS techniques, the present work assesses the transformation of land patterns over a specified time frame of 2010 and 2020. By analyzing Landsat satellite imagery, the study aims to discern the extent and nature of land use alterations, identifying key drivers and implications for environmental management and sustainability. Through comprehensive spatial analysis and statistical methods, the research seeks to provide valuable insights into the dynamics of landuse change, facilitating planning and decision-making for regional development and conservation endeavors. The outcomes of the study contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between human activities and natural landscapes in the Himalayan region, offering valuable knowledge for policymakers, planners and environmental stakeholders striving to balance developmental needs with ecological preservation.