Water Resources Studies by Remote Sensing Techniques in Bangladesh
Dr. M.A H. Pramanik
Babgladesh Space Research and
Remote Sensing Organization (SPARRSO)
Agargaon, Sher- e Bangla Nagar
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Abstract
Remote sensing by satellites and airborne surveys provides and authentic sources of information for surveying, identifying, Classifying , mapping and monitoring of natural resources in general and water resources in particular. Mutiband and multidate satellite imagery and aerial photographs ( both black and white and colors infrared ) have been extensively used in Bangladesh for water resources studies and management including flood studies Since 1968 the meteorological satellite ground station has been operational in Bangladesh and has been periodically upgraded. The meteorological Satellite imagery / data of 1 km resolution is in operation but the high resolution resources satellite imagery/ data (30 m and 10 m ) reception is yet to be made operational. Satellite information/ data have limitation of resolution and cloud penetration capability.
In the present paper attempts have beenmade to highlight to highlight various activities done in Bangladeshin the water resources sectors using remote sensing techniques. The study includes water bodies survey, river course monitoring, drainage pattern mapping, flood studies, monitoring of Kaptai lake and coastal morphology etc. Efforts are being made to up-date the technology including procurement of software, development of models for quantization of rainfall estimate, studies of snow melting from satellite imagery, indroduction of a Geographic Information System (GIS) , arrangements of making high resolution satellite data ( Landsat/SPOT ground station) operational and procurement of survey aircraft with necessary accessories. A combination of satellite and airborne remote sensing information/data will help in water resources management including flood studies, river course monitoring, mapping, resource management and disaster warning as well as assessment in the country.
