Utilization of ICESat-2 and Pleiades Stereo Datasets for assessments of
Changes in Elevation in Complex Himalayan Terrain due to the Rockslide
at Trishul Mountain Range near Ronti Glacier, Chamoli
Abstract
Openly accessible space-borne lidar, ICESat-2 datasets along with
Pleiades stereo datasets provide a unique opportunity for estimation and
monitoring of fragile sites in relatively inaccessible complex terrain
for their changes in elevation and state. Two sets of over 100 lidar
points (footprints) from ICESat-2 Track ID: 1354, dated 27 March 2019
were chosen in the flood-impacted Rishiganga and Dhauliganga valleys,
i.e. at the place of the rock slide and a confluence Junction on the
downstream side towards the severely affected Raini Village. These two
locations depict the large-scale changes that occurred due to the flash
flood initiated by the rockfall on 7th February 2021.
The pre-and post- datasets from Google Earth optical images depict the
large variations that occurred due to the event. Digital elevation model
generated from Pleiades stereo datasets acquired on
10th February 2021 (post-event), is used for analysis
with ICESat-2 datasets (pre-event). Before the event at the analyzed
junction location, there was a width of about 30m channel with boulders
and had tree-covered surrounding slopes. After the event lot of mud and
debris have accumulated in a width of about 300 m without tree cover.
The trees got unearthed in the processes involved in the event. The
analysis shows a clear sign of erosion on the banks and the accumulation
of debris along the river channel as well. The analysis depicted an
accumulation of debris that raised the elevation from 0.1m to 44.86m at
places with an average of 11.34m. Whereas the erosion varies from 0.15m
- 15.76m with an average of 4.85m, mainly on the eroded river banks.