DTM Generation and Avalanche Hazard Mapping using Large Format Digital Photogrammetric Data and Geomatics Technique

Abstract

The main objective of the study is Digital Terrain Model (DTM) generation from aerial photogrammetric data and identify and map the potential avalanche prone zones in Manali region. Avalanche is a dynamic hazardous phenomenon in the snow-bound mountainous terrain. Mapping of avalanche prone terrain is crucial to minimize the avalanche hazard. Nowadays, airborne data capturing technology, such as large-format Photogrammetry, has opened new vistas for the mapping of complex and inaccessible mountainous areas. In the present study, large format digital Photogrammetry data of 20 cm ground sample distance (GSD) have been used to generate high-resolution and accurate Digital Elevation Model and ortho-images. Digital terrain model along with its derivative terrain products and land cover map generated from land cover classification of derived ortho-photo is analyzed to locate the probable avalanche zone. The terrain characteristics, snow-pack condition and prevailing meteorological conditions are the groups of variables that influence the occurrence of avalanche. Amongst these, the terrain characteristics is the most influencing factor, and easier to map due to its stable nature along the time. Therefore advanced geo-informatics techniques have been used by mixing terrain property, Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and satellite imagery to determine the different geographical factors that affect the avalanche triggering. Also the derived information was combined in Analytic Hierarchy Process to extract a map of the avalanche prone zones in the study area standard mapping techniques as  coarse-resolution data are not very appropriate for such studies.

Keywords: photogrammetry, DTM, snow, avalanche