Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0239-7331
Biosketch
Accomplished PhD in Geology with over a decade of expertise in geological data analysis using advanced software, proficient in uncovering Earth's structural evolution. Adept in managing large-scale development projects, I am eager to contribute my skills to your team and drive innovative earth science solutions. I am excited to bring my passion and experience in geology to your dynamic team.
Date of Award
3-2-2025
Document Type
Thesis
School
School of Civil Engineering
Programme
Ph.D.-Doctoral of Philosophy
First Advisor
Dr.R.Selvakumar
Keywords
Tanks, Storage Capacity, Runoff, Soil Erosion, Remote Sensing
Abstract
Tanks and earthen embankments used for water harvesting and storage have been a significant part of India's irrigation system since the 2nd and 3rd centuries. In Tamil Nadu, around 39,202 tanks have storage capacities of around 178.94 million cubic feet. However, they have been impacted by natural and anthropogenic threats such as soil erosion, siltation, inadequate rainfall, and drought. This study aims to determine the current storage capacity of tanks, estimate the loss in storage capacity/volume of silt, estimate the rate of siltation and life of tanks, identify soil erosion-prone zones, and map deteriorating parameters along supply channels.
The study evaluates the degradation of tanks using qualitative and quantitative methods. The results show that most tanks significantly lost their capacity, with an average loss of 50.09%. The linear empirical equation-based model can effectively estimate tank storage capacity. The RUSLE model estimates erosion magnitude and spatial distribution, showing an overall increase in mean annual soil loss from 4084.40 t ha−1/yr (1996) to 4922.47 t ha−1/yr (2016). The model reveals the influence of land use modifications, mainly plantation and cropland areas, on the rate and pattern of soil erosion.
Implementing biological and mechanical measures such as afforestation, promoting coconut and eucalyptus plantations, and so on can reduce erosion in the study area. The study investigates sedimentation rates and tank life estimations, highlighting the importance of tank conservation planning and management. Radionuclides, like 210Pb and 137Cs, estimate sediment deposition and accumulation rates in various environments. The Peravoorini tank's sedimentation rate was calculated using a multichannel gamma-ray spectrometer, and the average sediment accumulation rate was 0.69 cm/y.
Under current sedimentation rates, the tank's useful life is projected at 428.57 years. The study evaluates the storage efficiency of tanks after renovation using the SCS-CN method. The study reveals a correlation between runoff and the storage capacity of tanks in each microwatershed. The stored water can be efficiently used for agricultural and other needs throughout the year, improving the economy of the rural populous.
Recommended Citation
N, Nasir M, "A Geomatic Appraisal On Restoration Of Tank Cascade Systems In Ambuliyar Watershed, Tamilnadu" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 132.
https://knowledgeconnect.sastra.edu/theses/132