010494   Hough S E;Bilham R (U S Geological Survey, , 525 S. Wilson Avenue, Pasodena, CA 91106, USA, Email: hough@usgs.gov) : Site response of the ganges basin inferred from re-evaluated macroseismic observations from the 1897 Shillong, 1905 Kangra, and 1934 Nepal earthquake. J Earth Syst Sci 2008, 117(S2), 773-82.

Analyses previously published geodetic data and intensity values for the M_s= 8.1 Shillong (1897), M_s = 7.8 Kangra (1905), and M_s = 8.2 Nepal/Bihar (1934) earthquakes to investigate the e zones of these earthquakes as well as the amplification of ground motions throughout the Punjab, Ganges and Brahmaputra valleys. For each earthquake we subtract the observed MSK intensities from a synthetic intensity derived from an inferred planar rupture model of the earthquake combined with an attenuation function derived from instrumentally recorded earthquakes. The resulting residuals are contoured to identify regions of anomalous intensity caused primarily cal site effects. Observations indicative of liquefaction are treated separately from other indications of shaking severity lest they inflate inferred residual shaking estimates. Despite this precautions we find that intensities are 1-3 units higher near the major rivers, as well as at the edges of the Ganges basin. Find evidence for a post-critical Moho reflection from the 1897 and 1905 earthquakes that raises intensities 1-2 units at distances of the order of 150 km from the rupture zone, and find that the 1905 earthquake triggered a substantial subsequent earthquake at Dehra Dun, 8 distance of approximately 150 km. Four or more M = 8 earthquakes are apparently overdue he region based on seismic moment summation in the past 500 years. Results from the study permit anticipated intensities in these future eatthquakes to be refined to incorporate site effects derived from dense macroseismic data.

6 illus, 1 tables, 43 ref

010493   Hanumantharao C;Ramana G V (Civil Engineering Group, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, Pilani-333 031, Email: hrao@bits-pilani.ac.in) : Dynamic soil properties for microzonation of Delhi, India. J Earth Syst Sci 2008, 117(S2), 719-30.

Delhi. the capital of India, has experienced mild seismic shaking during several earthquakes in past. The large variations of depth to bedrock and ground water table coupled with different types at different locations of Delhi necessitate a seismic microzonation study. Dynamic soil properties such as.. hear wave velocity, modulus reduction and damping characteristics of local soils are the basic and essential input parameters for conducting even a preliminary ground response analysis which is an essential input in microzonation studies. Shear wave velocity is not measured routinely due to its high cost and lack of the required expertise. Several researchers in the past developed correlations between shear wave velocity (V_s) and routinely measured N values. In the study, shear wave velocity profiles measured in the field at more than 80 borehole locations to a depth of about 20 to 32 m using Spectral Analysis of Surface Waves (SASW) are presented and relations between shear wave velocity and N values are also presented for use by engineers and designers. Results of strain and stress controlled cyclic triaxial tests on remoulded samples of sand mixtures in the high strain range are used for generating the modulus reduction and damping . and are compared with the well-known curves in the literature. The results presented can be used for microzonation studies as well as site specific ground response analyses at Delhi.

13 illus, 2 tables, 55 ref

010492   Giridhar M V S S;Acharyulu S K C;Viswanadh G K (Centre for Water resources, Institute of Science and tgechnology, J N T U, Hyderabad) : Geomatics application for landuse landcover at micro level. Int J Envir Dev 2008, 5(2), 145-53.

Objective of the study is to prepare DEM with the help of Global Positing System (GPS) and delineation of Watersheds in GIS Environment. With this basic concept Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kukatpally, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India has been taken as study area. J. N. T. University lies geographically in between north Latitudes 17.497° N and 17.489° N and east Longitudes 78.386°E and 78.394°E. The North side of the study area is bounded by National Highway and east side is bounded by the road going towards Hi-tech city. The effective area of the study is 0.376 sq.km. In study, watershed is delineated using Geomatics approach. Elevation points, Longitude and Latitude of various corners of buildings and along roads, points were taken in the study area using hand held GPS. With the known elevation point's Contour map, DEM map, watershed has been delineated in Arc GIS environment. In the study two watersheds were delineated comprises of the area of 0.144 sq.km and 0.077 sq.km out of the total area 0.376 Sq. Km. III conclusion, using Geomatics approach once can delineate watersheds even at ultra micro level.

4 illus, 2 tables, 4 ref

010491   Boominathan A;Dodagoudar G R;Suganthi A;Uma Maheswari R (NO, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai-600 036, Email: boomi@iitm.ac.in) : Seismic hazard assessment of Chennai city considering local site effects. J Earth Syst Sci 2008, 117(S2), 853-63.

Chennai city suffered moderate tremors during the 2001 Bhuj and Pondicherry earthquakes and the 2004 Sumatra earthquake. After the Bhuj earthquake, Indian Standard IS: 1893 was revised and Chennai city was upgraded from zone II to zone III which leads to a substantial increase of the design ground motion parameters. Therefore, a comprehensive study is carried out to assess the seismic hazard of Chennai city based on a deterministic approach. The seismicity and seismotectonic details within a 100 km radius of the study area have been considered. The one-dimensional ground response analysis was carried out for 38 representative sites by the equivalent linear method using the SHAKE91 program to estimate the ground motion parameters considering the local site effects. The shear wave velocity profile was inferred from the corrected blow counts and it was verified with the Multichannel Analysis of Surface Wave (MASW) test performed for a representative site. The seismic hazard is represented in terms of characteristic site period and Spectral Acceleration Ratio (SAR) contours for the entire city. It is found that structures with low natural period un ergo significant amplification mostly in the central and southern parts of Chennai city due to the presence of deep soil sites with clayey or sandy deposits and the remaining parts undergo marginal amplification.

4 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

010490   Anbazhagan P;Sitharam T G (Civil Engineering Dep, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: anbazhagan@civil.iisc.ernet.in) : Seismic microzonation of Bangalore, India. J Earth Syst Sci 2008, 117(S2), 833-52.

An attempt has been made to evaluate the seismic hazard considering local site effects by carrying out detailed geotechnical and geophysical site characterization in Bangalore, India to develop microzonation maps. An area of 220 km^{2, encompassmg Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BMP) has been chosen as the study area. Seismic hazard analysis and microzonation of Bangalore are addressed in three parts: in the first part, estimation of seismic hazard is done using seismotectonic and geological information. Second part deals with site characterization using geotechnical and shallow geophysical techniques. In the last part, local site effects are assessed by carrying out one-dimensional (I-D) ground response analysis (using the program SHAKE2000) using both standard penetration test (SPT) data and shear wave velocity data from multichannel analysis of surface wave (MASW) survey. Further, field experiments llsing microtremor studies hare also been carried out for evaluation of predominant frequency of the soil columns. The same has been assessed using 1-D ground response analysis and compared with microtremor results. Further, the Seed and Idriss simplified approach has been adopted to evaluate the soil liquefaction usceptibility and liquefaction resistance assessment. Microzonation maps have been prepared with a scale of 1:20,000. The detailed methodology, along with experimental details, collated data, results and maps are presented.}

18 illus, 6 tables, 36 ref

010489   Ahirrao S D;Pedge S S;Suryawanshi S P (Fisheries Dep, Research Laboratory, Shri Shivaji College, Parbhani, Maharashtra) : Present hydrochemical profile of meteoritic impact Crater Lonkar lake (M.S.) India. Bionano Front 2010, 3(1), 56-8.

Lonar Crater is an impact crater located in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra State of India (19°58'N, 76°21'E). The Lonar crater is an important geological structure. This crater is formed in basalt rock of the Deccan platue some 35 to 50 thousand years ago is only of its kind. Though now it is declared as an impact crater. Due to the age and uniqness of the crater it come third largest and oldest meteoric crater. In the present study includes analysis of water quality for number of physic-chemical parameter of the lake water such as pH, salinity, EC, TDS, TSS, DO, CO₂, Cl, Ca, Mg, Na, K, alkalinity etc. The present investigation revealed that the lake water having high salinity due to chlorides and high alkalinity due to carbonates. The observed alkalinity is attributed to an interaction between sodium chloride, calcium carbonate and water a long period of time.

1 table, 17 ref

009603   Venkateswara Rao B (Center for Water Resources, Institute of Science and Technology, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological Un, Kukkatpally, Hyderabad-500 072) : Improved methodology for identification of ground water potential zones in a typical Khondalitic terrain. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 73-81.

Integrated studies for evaluation of ground water potential in a typical khondalitic (garneti ferrous sillimanite gneiss) terrain is accomplished by proposing an improved methodology involving numerical weights and ratings assigned to various geophysical and geomorphic parameters leading to a computation of ground water potential Index (GWPI) of a given site. It is found that the GWPI of any site should be 35 and above in order to have 75% success rate of wells in a given khondalitic terrain with a yield norm of 8000 litres per hour (LPH) per well. This methodology is an improved one in the sense that the weights are tested for their validity unlike in the earlier methods proposed for similar purposes. These studies indicate that the ground water potential zones are located on gently sloping uplands covered by either shallow buried pediplains or washplains situated between the lineaments or streams. In addition, the potential areas should have basement depths either between 20-30 m or 40-45 m with an aquifer resistivity range 25-65 ohm m. Aquifers in the low lying areas near streams have been kaolinised and acting as barriers to accumulate ground water in the flat-upland areas.

2 illus, 17 tables, 6 ref

009602   Thakur B R (NO, Institute for Spatial Planning and Environment Research, Panchkula-134 107) : Morphometric analysis of Ghaggar basin. Ann Natn Ass Geographers 2008, 28(2), 64-78.

10 tables, 21 ref

009601   Tang S;Zhou H Y;Peng X T;Jiang L;Wu Z J;Lin R C (Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou-510640, Email: tangsong@gig.ac.cn) : Changes in major carbon components during a fertilization experiment with surface water from the Central Indian Ocean. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 135-41.

Shipboard iron- and macronutrient-addition experiment was conducted in the Central Indian Ocean, to investigate the variations of carbon in different forms and its records for plankton activities. Experiments were conducted in four 500-L acrylic barrels with the surface seawater near 24°S, 70°E. The concentration of chlorophyll a, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and particulate organic carbon (POC) were measured. DOC concentration had a dramatic increase when phytoplankton bloom, which is caused by the excretion of blooming phytoplankton. Another maximum of DOC concentration occurred after phytoplankton bloom corresponds to the bacterial degradation of organic matters or the excretion of phytoplankton. The decrease of DOC concentration following the two maxima might result from the absorption of DOC by bacteria. The increasing trends of POC before phytoplankton bloom were consistent with that of DOC and chlorophyll a, indicating that phytoplankton growth dominated the plankton activities. The variation of POC concentration just after bloom was controlled by the decomposition of phytoplankton and the growth of bacteria. However, POC concentration increased at the end of the experiment, which might be caused by the growth of bacteria with the utilization of DOC. The present study infers that the carbon records, particularly POC and DOC, in the seawater are indicative to plankton activities.

4 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

009600   Talekar S;Jadhav M (Botany Dep, K.S.K. Coll, Beed-431 122) : Biodiversity of Desmids in Manjara river of Maharashtra. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 104-5.

Desmids are Chlorophyceae alga found free floating everywhere in aquatic ecosystems. Paper deal with Desmids of Manjara river in Seed district of Marathwada region of Maharashtra. 20 taxa of Desmids under four genera were recorded from 10 selected sites of Manjara river, 5 species of Closterium 2 spices of Euastrum, 12 species of Cosmarium and 1 species of Desmidium have been recorded. On the basis of number of taxa, the dominant genus was Cosmarium, represented by 12 species; Seasonal variation study reveals that summer is the suitable season for the dominance of Desmids.

1 table, 7 ref

009599   Sumanth Kumar M;Byragireeddy T;Swapnavahini K;VijayaBhaskar B;Sudhakar K (Basic Sci Dep, VIEW, Visakhapatnam) : Integration of GIS and remote sensing in groundwater investigations: a case study in sub-Urban regions of Hyderabad and parts of Mehbubnagar district. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 100-3.

Remote sensing data combined with Geographical Information System (GIS) technique has been proved to be very efficient in identification of groundwater potential of any area. In the present paper, IRS -lD PAN, LISS - III data has been used to identify the groundwater potential zones by integrating 'various thematic maps generated on 1:50,000 scale and the groundwater potential zones in South Eastern parts of Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation and its Adjoining Parts in Mahabubnagar District, Andhra Pradesh are demarcated. The area of investigation has been classified into five groundwaªter potential zones. The present results show that integration of all attributes provides more accurate results in groundwater potential zones identification.

7 illus, 13 ref

009598   Sharma B;Teotia S S;Dinesh Kumar (ISR Gandhinagar, Geophysics Dep, Kurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra, Email: babita_s@rediffmail.com) : Site amplification study in the Garhwal Himalayan region by using coda waves. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 51-5.

Vertical components of twenty four earthquakes, occurred in the Garhwal Himalaya region in 1989, are considered to study site amplification using coda waves by using reference site method in the frequency range of 3 Hz to 24 Hz. For this purpose four sites(DHR, FOR, SUR, CHK) are chosen in the area. Taking POR as reference site, relative site amplification is estimated at other three sites. Site amplification factor in the frequency range of 3 to 24 Hz at DHR, CHK and SUR vary from 1.11 to 2.25, 1.48 to 3.72 and 1.37 to 1.68 respectively. By this analysis it is observed that the site amplification is more at the site having softer rock. At DHR and CHK, where sandstone is present, the variation in site amplification is more. On the other hand, at SUR, the presence of Quartzite causes relatively less site amplification.

3 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

009597   Roy A K (NO, , ) : Coal occurrence and rank of IB valley coal deposits Orissa state. SGAT Bull 2008, 9(1), 14-23.

The Ib Valley coalfield is known as store house of less matured non-coking coal. Some of coal deposits, particularly in Talabira central part and dip extension of Gopalpur Tract, exhibits some of the basic qualities which compel to assign the coals as comparatively mature and in turn, may posses some coking property also. Since this aspect was not conceived earlier, there is practically no specific determined quality data available to ascertain the maturity level of coal deposits at selective places. The present paper deals with available basic quality data and suggests further investigation to prove or othenvise possibility of B₃-B₄ group of coal, i.e., weakly to medium coking coal as per ISP classification 1977.

3 illus, 4 tables

009596   Roonwal G S (Inter-University Accelerator Centre, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-1100 067) : Sea floor mineral deposits : a revival of interest in deep sea mining. SGAT Bull 2008, 9(1), 1-13.

Because of increased demand and prices in the world metal supplies, interest in the mineral resources of the deep seabed has experienced a revival in recent years. This offers competitive opportunities on the underwater technology and frontier. This is quite unlike that of the late 1960s and 1970s. Current interest is based on scientific research and economic understanding. Both oxide deposits comprising polymetallic manganese, and crust have been found to contain high levels of Cu, Ni and Co respectively. Seabed sulfide deposits on the plate boundaries are rich in Cu, Zn, Pb, Au. These deposits would possibly the first to be mined on the deep sea bed. In the futuristic term, increase in demand as well as increase in the level of economic growth in the emerging economy such as India, China, Brazil and others would possibly lead to tighter supplies and higher prices. These trends would support serious consideration of the commercial development of deep sea bed mineral deposits.

2 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

009595   Reddy A G S;Niranjan Kumar K (Central Ground Water Board, Southern Region, Hyderabad) : Evaluation of the potential ground water zones in Hyderabad city, Andhra Pradesh. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 57-62.

Ground water exploration carried out in the central part of Hyderabad city indicates the presence of high yielding fracture zones down to the depth of 173m in elevated and highly rocky terrain. Occurrence and movement of ground water is mostly restricted to fractured zones developed due to structural disturbances and later intrusive activity. Generally the fractures are found at the contact between the pink granite and grey granite gneiss. Ten bore wells were drilled in granite and granite gneiss down to a depth ranging from 131.70to203.Ohm-m. The discharges of successful wells vary between 2.11 and 6.91 Ips at draw down ranging from 7.60 to 20.60 m. The transmissivity varies from 8.85 to 201.6 sqm/day. The wide variation in the discharge and aquifer parameters could be due to the differential fracture disposition and lack of interconnectivity. The chemical quality of water is generally good with a few parameters beyond the permissible limits. The ground water in eastern part, which is a topographic low area having gentle slop and thick population, has high sulphates, nitrates and chlorides indicating the effect of pollution. The water in western part, which is an elevated area with steep gradient, has marginally high fluoride content. The ground water is fit for domestic purposes but needs to be blended with surface waters before used for drinking.

3 tables, 9 ref

009594   Ravi Kumar M S;Ramaiah N;Tang D L (Research Centre fo Remote Sensing and Marine Ecology and LED, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzyhou, China, Email: lingzistdl@126.com) : Morphometry and cell volumes of diatoms from a tropical estuary of India. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 160-5.

Cell volumes and per cell carbon contents of different diatoms (10 centric, 14 pennate and 1 dinoflagellate) collected from Dona Paula Bay in the central west coast of India have been analyzed. Morphometric information on the phytoplankton types recovered through many replicate samples for calculating the cell volumes and to estimate per cell carbon content has been presented. The data on the above aspects are of of great significance for instance for comparison of data from different geographic locations. Cell dimensions of all identified plankton species comprising diatoms (90% of total cell counts), dinoflagellates (1%) and others (9% of total cell counts) were recorded for calculating per cell carbon content of the observed species. The carbon content, while correlating positively with increasing cell size of phytoplankton species recorded, was found to be directly dependant on cell volume. The present study elucidates that the use of a standardized species list with fixed size-classes and biovolume will be necessary for a realistic measurement of carbon contents. The present study also suggests that morphometric measurements are necessary for obtaining dependable estimations of cell volumes and carbon contents.

1 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

009593   Ramesh Babu V;Subhash Ram;Markandeyulu A; Chaturvedi A K (Atomic Energy Dep, Atomic Mineral Directorate for Exploration and Research, Hyderabad-500 629) : Magnetic and VLF-EM surveys for mapping mineral potential zones : a case study from Raipur district, Chhattisgarh, India. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 11-9.

Uranium mineralisation reported in Juba-Banjhapali sector in Singhora Basin, Chhattisgarh is hosted by pyritiferous feldspathic arenites of basal Rehathikhol formation and occurs in isolated patches along the NNW-SSE trending fault. Regional magnetic and VLF-EM surveys covering an area of 100 sq. km are conducted along the south eastern margin of Chhattisgarh Basin. Magnetic data has delineated the fault/fractures and basin intrusives in the sedimentary cover area. Euler deconvolution to magnetic data provides the spatial locations and depth of the source. VLF-EM survey conducted along the traverse zero yields the subsurface resistivity distribution. The interpreted results, both magnetic and VLF-EM, are helpful to quickly access the mineral potential of the area.

10 illus, 35 ref

009592   Rajani Kumari V;Mrutyunjaya Rao I (PNCO Dep, School of Chemistry, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: imrao_ivaturi@yahoo.co.in) : Estuarine characteristics of lower Krishna river. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 215-23.

Study consists of the spatial and temporal variations of depth, temperature and salinity, currents, flushing times and classification of the Krishna estuary. Temperature exhibited a distinct seasonal variation with higher values in premonsoon (30.0±0.09°C) and monsoon (29.2±0.08°C) seasons compared to that of winter (26.6±0.06°C). Salinity and current pattrns shows distinct seasonal and spatial variations noticed. Changes in hydrodynamic conditions infers that the river mouth as a positive type of estuary. Flushing times varied with seasons and locations due to changes in river discharges and circulation pattern. Considering the two dimensional Hansen and Rattray's stratification and circulation diagram, the estuary has heen classified as partially mixed with no stratification type during postmonsoon and stratified during monsoon and premonsoon seasons.

9 illus, 29 ref

009591   Raina A;Pande H C;Sharma P;Mittal A K (KDMIPE, ONGC, Dehradun-248 195, Email: ashokraina59@rediffmail.com) : Stable carbon isotope geochemistry: a diagnostic tool for understanding the origin of unconventional gas deposits. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 87-92.

Barakar Formation, which is the chief contributor of the quality coal seams in most of the coal fields confined to the Permian Gondwana basins, has an estimated coal reserves of about 200 billion metric tones with respect to CBM exploration. The desorbed gas samples from some of the potential areas like Jharia,Bokaro,North Karanpura of West Bengal have been analyzed for their chemical composition and stable carbon isotopic composition to probe into the coal bed methane potential of this area. Study reveals that the gases desorbed from the cores of coal seams have appreciable amount of methane, more than 80% in most of the cases. The gases have been genetically characterized by stable carbon isotopic values of methane that vary from -56.3 to -22.7 per mil. The isotopic values are indicative of varying proportion of biogenic as well as thermogenic gases generated during coalification process. The geochemical analysis of core samples derived from the KG offshore basin has resulted in identifying the presence of gas hydrates. The desorbed gas samples from the cores have been analyzed for their chemical composition to probe into methane potential of the gas hydrates. Study reveals that gases have appreciable amount of methane, more than 95% with little of ethane, propane and CO, in the area where gas hydrates are localized. The stable isotopic studies of adsorbed gases vary from -27 to -73.6 per mil. The isotopic values indicate varying proportion of biogenic as well as thermogenic gases. The thermogenic gases are found at deeper depths of core samples.

5 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

009590   Naik S;Acharya B C;Mohapatra A (NO, Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar-751 013, Email: bcacharya@yahoo.com) : Seasonal variations of phytoplankton in Mahanadi estuary, east coast of India. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 184-90.

Seasonal variations of phytoplankton and chlorophyll-a along with its environmental variations including nutrients were studied from June-2004 to March-2007. Samples were collected in three different seasons pre-monsoon (May-June), post-monsoon (October-November) and summer (February-March) from the Mahanadi estuary. Seventy seven species of phytoplankton were encountered during the study period of which, diatoms (Bacillariophyceae) was the dominant group followed by dinoflagellates (Dinophyceae) and cyanobacteria (Cyanophyceae). Higher phytoplankton counts and chlorophyll-a concentrations were recorded in post-monsoon season. Nutrient concentration was also very high in the above season as compared to other two seasons. Cyanobacteria population was more during post-monsoon season. Positive correlations of phytoplankton, with chlorophyll-a and dissolved oxygen were recorded in all three sampling seasons. Positive correlation of phytoplankton population with Chl-a, DO, NO₂-N, NH₄-N indicated that the phytoplankton population in the estuary is controlled by above nutrients. Diatoms are dependent on NO₂-N and NH₄-N, dinoflagellates depend on NO₂-N and SiO₄. Cyanobacteria in the estuary depend on NO₂-N, NH₄ and PO₄.

5 tables, 22 ref

009589   Mohanty P K;Panda B U S (Marine Sciences Dep, Berhampur Univ, Berhampur-760 007, Email: pratap_mohanty@yahoo.com) : Criculation and mixing processes in chilika lagoon. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 205-14.

Chilika lagoon, along the east coast of India, is the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia. Hydrodynamics of an aquatic system like Chilika is extremely important. It has significant impact on sediment and pollutant transport, distribution of nutrients in water and sediments, and the productivity of the system. Data on salinity, temperature and wind procured during summer and winter season have been utilized to demonstrate circulation and mixing processes in Chilika lagoon. Density and wind driven circulation of this lagoon have been examined and depicted for the above period. Mixing of water masses in the lagoon are studied using straight line as well as triangle mixing methods. The present study infers the inherent seasonal variability in circulation (wind and density driven) and mixing pattern and also the variability due to opening of new mouth in Chilika lagoon.

10 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

009588   Maurya A K;Singh V S;Chaturvedi A K (NO, Atomic Mineral Directorate for Exploratin and Research, Hyderabad-500 629) : Application of electrical resistivity imaging technique in delineation of geological structures in hard rock terrain. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 25-35.

Geological structures in hard rock play crucial role in mineralization, and groundwater occurrences. The nature and geometry of these structures are very important in assessing the type of deposits and quantitative evolution. The delineation of geological structures is being done by various geophysical techniques. The Electrical Resistivity Imaging (ERI) technique is one of the various geophysical techniques, which measures the variation of resistivity with depth along a profile or over an area. 2D-Electrical Resistivity Imaging surveys with Wenner-Schlumberger, dipole-dipole, pole-dipole and pole-pole configuration have been carried out at 15 different places in Kongal Basin, a granitic terrain in district Nalgonda, Andhra Pradesh. The observed resistivity pseudo-sections are inverted by RES2DINV software. The inverted 2D resistivity sections show the presence of the geological structures like fractured zones, dykes, faults and give an estimate of thickness of overburden/weathered zone. Wenner-Schlumberger configuration has given moderate deep information with moderate resolution while Dipole-dipole has given shallow information with good resolution. Pole-dipole configuration provided moderate depth information with high resolution. But asymmetry effect is reflected in images. The deeper information with less resolution has been adviered by Pole-pole configuration. The interpreted geological structures based on the images obtained from the ERI surveys have been supported by forward models generated in RES2DMOD software. At a few places the interpreted images have been compared with time and lithological logs from drilled boreholes.

15 illus, 9 ref

009587   Markandeyulu A;Kumar B V L;Jain S K;Israeli I H;Yadav O P;Roy M K (AMD, Head Quarters, Hyderabad) : Uranium exploration by geophysical techniques in Upper Gondwanas of Satpura Gondwana basin-a case study from Jhirpa area, Chhindwara district, Madhya pradesh, India. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 3-9.

Reconnaissance geological, radiometric, regional hydro-geochemical and radon surveys conducted during the last decade by AMD, brought out several promising areas in Upper Gondwana formations. Further, detailed geological, structural mapping and geochemical surveys are conducted in the Jhirpa-Kharatoria tract of Chhindwara district, MR In this tract Uranium mineralisation occurs along a major lineament within the Middle Denwa formations. Detailed geophysical surveys comprising magnetic and resistivity/IP surveys are conducted over an area of about 12 sq. km for a strike length of 8.4 line km. Six vertical electrical resistivity soundings are also conducted. High amplitude and short wave length nature of magnetic anomalies indicate their strong magnetic character and shallow depth of occurrence. Magnetic image map clearly reflects the continuity of intrusive dykes in strike direction. Magnetic anomalous zones are marked at the intersection of magnetic anomaly trends and inferred structural features. Resistivity and IP surveys conducted employing Wenner-Schlumberger array with an effective current electrode separation of 500m indicated the highly conductive nature of Denwa sediments and reflected the trend and disposition of basic dykes. High resistivity (up to 30 ohm-m) and high chargeability (up to 8 mV/V) anomalies are recorded over the basic dykes. Vertical electrical sounding data helped in deciphering the vertical variations in resistivity of different beds of Denwa formations in the area. The maximum depth to sandstone,a high resistivity unit of Denwa formation as interpreted from VES and TEM soundings, is in the range of 215 to 275 m.

10 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

009586   Mahalik N K (NO, Utkal Univ, Bhubaneswar, Orissa, Email: mahalik_nk@yahoo.com) : Review on the earthquake of China with special reference to the 2008 sichuan earthquake. SGAT Bull 2008, 9(1), 24-9.

Reviews most of the destructive earthquakes in China including the May 12,2008 Sichuan earthquake which killed almost 70000 people by now. Most earthquakes in China are intraplate type and are caused by the northward movement of Indian plate and its convergence with the Euro-Asian plate. This has lead to the upliftment of the Himalayas and the Tibetan plateau at the boundary of the two plates accompanied by the motion of crustal materials to the east from the upliffed Tibetan plateau. It is believed that the movement of these crustal materials within the Chinese plate has been responsible for most of the earthquakes. Devastation to life and property are due to improper design of structures which can not stand to the high seismic stresses. Huge landslides in the hill terrains of China adds to the devastation.

3 illus, 1 table

009585   Kumar S P;Patterson Edward J K (Chemistry Dep, Women's Christian College, Nagercoil-629 001, Email: s_prasannak@yahoo.com) : Assessment of metal concentration in the sediment cores of Mankudy estuary south west coast of India. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 235-48.

Base line data on the metal concentration was obtained from three core sediments (S1, S2 and S3) of Manakudy estuary on the south west coast of India. The acid teachable trace metals (Cr, Cu, Ni, Co, Pb, Zn and Cd) showed peak values at sulphidic phase. There is moderate level of pollution related to anthropogenic activities. The trace metals were associated with Fe and Mn indicating their adsorption onto Fe-Mn oxyhydroxides. The correlation of trace metals with sulphur indicates that they were precipitated as metal sulphides. Correlation matrix showed elegant association between trace metals and Fe, Mn, S and mud. The Igeo values revealed that all the core samples fell within uncontaminated to moderately contaminated category. The concentration factor was low (C_fⁱ <1) indicating low contamination in the core samples. The anthropogenic factor (AF) values indicate moderate anthropogenic inputs.

5 illus, 3 tables, 72 ref

009584   Joydas T V;Damodaran R (Marine Dep, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin Science and Technology Univ, Kochi-682 016, Email: rdcusat@hotmail.com) : Infaunal macrobenthos along the shelf waters of the west coast of India, Arabian Sea. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 191-4.

Study was carried out to comprehend the infaunal macrobenthic community structure along the shelf region in the Arabian Sea of the west coast of India by collecting samples from every degree square of this shelf. Polychaetes were the most abundant infaunal macrobenthic group (56.97%) and recorded 165 species belonging to 32 families. The study showed an average infaunal benthic biomass (in terms of wet weight) of 3.77 g m^{-2 and numerical abundance of 1,367 ind. m-2. Polychaetes species number, total biomass and total numerical abundance exhibited progressive decrease with increasing depth. Values of diversity indices such as Margalef richness, Pielou's evenness and Shannon diversity exhibited a consistent increase from 30-50 m upto 101-150 m and then a steep decrease to >150 m. ANOSIM of PRIMER showed a significant difference between the polychaetes of near shore and shelf edge. The progressive decrease of temperature and dissolved oxygen with increase in depth was found to be analogous to the decrease in the abundance and biomass of benthic fauna. Dominance of spionids, cirratulids and paraonids among the polychaetes were observed in the oxygen-minimum zone. It is estimated that the tropic support of infaunal benthos to demersal fishery is around 23%. In this study, the average total biomass and abundance were high in muddy substrata whereas diversity was higher in sandy substrata. The present study infers that even if many species are characteristically associated with a given sedimentary habitat, their distributions are rarely confined to that environment.}

8 illus, 6 tables, 71 ref

009583   Ingole S B;Pawale R G;Wavde P N (Zoology Dep, Shri Siddheshwar College, Majalgaon-431 131, Email: pnwavde@gmail.com) : Water quality studies on Majalgaon dam, Beed district, Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 71-6.

Physical properties of water in any aquatic system are largely regulated by the existing meteorological condition and chemical properties. The effect of physical forces such as light and heat are of great significance as they an solely responsible for certain phenomena like thermal stratification, chemical stratification, diurnal, seasonal, qualitative and quantitative variation in the plankton, micro and macro organisms and also in the quality of water. The ever-increasing population and rapid industrial growth in the present era are contributing to a maximum extent in influencing the physico-chemical properties of most water bodies. The impact of human activities and environmental factors on the fluctuation of physicochemical parameters along the Majalgaon Dam Reservoir was studied from June 2005 to May 2006. Water samples from four different locations were analyzed for BOD, COD, total hardness, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, carbon dioxide along with temperature and pH and few other parameters. It was observed that overall parameters are within the permissible limit. Alterations in characteristics of water due to seasonal fluctuations were observed throughout the year.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

009582   Harnstrom K;Karunasagar I;Godhe A (Fishery Microbiology Dep, College of Fisheries, Karnataka Veterinary Animal and Fisheries Scienc, PB No 527, Mabgakire-575 002, Email: karolina.harnstrom@marecol.gu.se) : Phytoplankton species assemblages and their relationship to hydrographic factors-a study at the old port in Mangalore, coastal Arabian sea. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 224-34.

Several environmental variables were monitored and water samples were examined from over a period of 17 days in December 2005 and January 2006 to understand the taxonomic structure of coastal phytoplankton communities at a coastal site near Mangalore. The phytoplankton community was characterized by identifying and quantifying microalgal taxa; in conjunction, also determined Chi a, inorganic nutrients, oxygen, salinity, temperature, total bacteria, and tidal range. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) was used to trace temporal phytoplankton community changes, and to examine the relationships between species composition and environmental factors. These variables were subjected to analysis, pair-wise, to identify correlations. The species diversity of the phytoplankton community changed rapidly, and high species diversity coincided with significantly higher relative diatom abundance, and lower species diversity coincided with significantly higher proportions of phytoplankton taxa other than diatoms and dinoflagellates. In addition, the Chl a concentration was positively correlated to the relative proportion of dinoflagellates. The relative abundance of some species was dependent on specific environmental variables, such as Chaetoceros tenuissimus that was found inversely correlated to salinity. We also found that the stage of the tides may have implication on the sampling, because it has an influence on species diversity and the proportion of specific microalgal groups. At declined water level, the relative proportion of diatoms and dinoflagellates was low, and generally the Chl a concentrations were also lower during low tide.

3 illus, 4 tables, 41 ref

009581   Harinarayana T;Sudha Rani K;Murthy D N;Abdul Azeez K K;Basava S (NO, National Geophysical Research Instute, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: thari54@yahoo.com) : Detection of geothermal interference in the tunnel excavation : application of magnetotellurics technique. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 43-50.

A difficult task for geo-engineers involved in tunnel construction in Himalayas is to know the possible interference of hot water regimes that may pose a problem during the construction of the tunnel. One possible solution for such a problem is to estimate the subsurface parameters using geophysical and geothermal investigations. Magnetotelluric (MT) studies have been carried out over a 35 km long North-South profile in Loharinag Pala area of lesser Himalayas in Uttaranchal. Rishikund, Sunagarh and Bhukki are prominent hotsprings in this region. A total of 16 MT stations have been occupied along the profile, many of them being close to the proposed tunnel alignment; four of these being situated away from the profile towards north as well as South. Electrical structure of the subsurface has been derived from 2-D modeling. To determine the strike direction we have used Groom-Bailey (GB) decomposition and Parkinson Induction vectors. North- West (~55°) direction coinciding with the regional strike direction is derived. Geothermal investigation has also been carried out to estimate the temperature at different depths from bore holes. Modeling study showed conductive feature with 5-40 ohm-m resistivity and predominantly appears in TE component as compared to TM. The southern part of the profile showed high resistive zone with a resistivity of the order of 500-1000 ohm-m. The resistivity structure along the tunnel alignment showed anomalous conductive zone towards north probably due to fractured rocks filled with water and minerals. The results obtained from the present study are useful to the geo-engineers in order to devise suitable safety measures during construction of the tunnel for hydroelectric power project.

7 illus, 29 ref

009580   Ghosh R;Ojha M;Sain K (NO, National Geophysical Research Institute, Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: kalachandsain@yahoo.com) : Elastic properties of hydrate bearing sediments using effective medium theory. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 83-6.

Accurate and detailed seismic velocity structure of gas-hydrates bearing sediments may be determined by careful analysis of controlled source seismic data. Most attempts to predict hydrates concentrations from estimated seismic velocities have been based on semi-empirical formulae and/or simple effective medium theory, which can not take into account the effects of sediments micro-structures and anisotropy. We intend to propose a method that can take these effects into account. Since shales make up 75% of majority of sedimentary basins, an effective medium theory is used to relate the seismic properties of a clay-rich hydrates bearing sediment to its porosity, mineralogy, microstructural features and hydrates saturation. The method considers two possible end members for the distribution of gas-hydrates in the pore spaces: (i) hydrates are unconnected and located in the pore voids without appreciable grain contact - non-contact model and (ii) hydrates are connected forming cements around the grains - contact model. The scheme is transversely isotropic to allow anisotropy due to alignment of clay platelets, and is based on a combination of self-consistent approximation (SCA) and differential effective medium theory (DEM).

4 illus, 8 ref

009579   Ghosh G K;Siddiquee F (NEF Project, Oil India Limited, Duliagan, Assam, Email: gk_ghosh@yahoo.com) : Spectral analysis of gravity data-an integrated approach towards hydrocarbon exploration in geologically complex and logistically difficult area of Manabum. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 37-42.

Imaging of subsurface in the perspective of hydrocarbon exploration in the geologically complex and logistically hostile terrain of the Assam - Arakan basin near fore deep of Himalayan foot hills is one the daunting and challenging job for the Geoscientist. In such a complex mountainous and thrusted terrain, the seismic has its own limitation and it is always recommended to utilize some passive geophysical methods to supplement and add value to the seismic data. In similar such efforts, OIL in its endeavor towards the accelerated hydrocarbon exploration approach ventured into the Manabum area. The area of study primarily falls close to the foot hills of Himalayas i.e. fore deep region in the North-East and partly in Belt of Schuppen (thrust belt) to the south-east, facing the Upper Assam foreland shelf. In order to obtain some meaningful Geophysical data, OIL decided to acquire ground gravity data on the experimental basis along few profiles which falls in the periphery of Seismic lines. These data was collected with great difficulty as in the study area the ground elevation varies from 250 meters to 800 meters. The gravity data was collected with the joint effort of NGRI and OIL using Lacoste and Romberg Gravimeter (Model G) with an accuracy of 0.01 mGal covering total 2000 gravity observations at spacing of 0.05 km to 1.0 km interval as per availability of tracks and approach. While carrying out interpretation studies of gravity data, an attempt has been made to estimate the average depth of the sedimentary strata and the basement from the Bouguer anomaly map, using spectral analysis method. The necessary program utilized for the spectral study was developed by the authors. This spectral analysis approach gives the result which maps the variation of Namsang depth formation from 1.96 km to 2.28 km whereas the average depth of the basement from the study varies from 6.5 km to 7.6 km. The result so obtained from these study substantiates and correlates very well with that of seismic. The present paper illustrates the utility of the spectral analysis approach in the depth estimation and the result so obtained encourages utilizing similar techniques to obtain meaningful results in other such complex terrain.

9 illus, 4 ref

009578   Elmaci A;Ozengin N;Teksoy A;Olcay Topac F; Baskaya H S (Environmental Engineering Dep, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Uludag Univ, Gorukle Campus, 16059, Bursa, Turkey, Email: aelmaci@uludag.edu.tr) : Evaluation of trophic state of lake Uluabat, Turkey. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 757-60.

Lake Uluabat, which is located in Marmara region, is one of the most productive lakes in Turkey. Due to concerns about potential pollution resulting from watershed sources and adjacent agricultural lands, a study of the trophic state of lake Uluabat was conducted during the period February 2003 to January 2004. Total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), Secchi disc depth (SD) and chlorophyll a (Chi a) were analyzed monthly in order to assess the trophic state of the lake. According to calculated nutrient ratios, phosphorus was found to be the primary limiting nutrient in lake Uluabat. Carlson's trophic state index values, based on TP, SD and Chi a, indicated that lake Uluabat is an eutrophic system.

009577   Bhowmick S A;Raj Kumar;Basu S;Sarkar A; Agarwal V K (Oceanic Sciences Div, Meteorology & Oceanography Group, Space Application Centre, (ISRO), Ahmedabad-380 015, Email: rkumar.sharma@gmail.com) : Improvement in wave forecast using data assimilative coastal wave model. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 142-50.

Attempt has been made to improve wave forecast using a data-assimilative coastal model. Synthetic ocean wave spectra have been computed using scatterometer forced coastal wave model SWAN. The spectra have been assimilated in the same model forced toy ETA model wind from the National Center for Medium Range Weather Forecast (NCMRWF). Model runs have been made for the Indian coastal region. Assimilation techniques used are direct insertion and blending. The present study reveals that the model performance has improved both for the significant wave height and swell height during the assimilation period and the forecast period. Direct insertion performs better than blending. Improvement is more in the case of slow moving low frequency swell as compared to the wind-generated wave. Impact of the assimilation remains significant for about 2 days in the case of total significant wave height, while for the swell; the memory of assimilation is about 3 days.

7 illus, 13 ref

009576   Beura D (P.G. Geology Dep, Utkal Univ, Bhubaneswar-4, Email: debanandabeura@rediffmail.com) : Iron ore deposits of Orissa-its present and future status with special reference to the development of steel industries. SGAT Bull 2008, 9(1), 33-44.

Orissa has become a prominent state in India and worldwide for its vast iron ore deposits. Now it is the highest iron ore producing state in the country. The major iron ore deposits associated with Banded Iron Formation (BIF) are clustered surrounding the North Orissa Iron Ore Craton excepting some other discrete pockets. Huge quantity and high-grade iron ores have attracted a good number of industrial giants of national and international stature to set up steel industries in Orissa. The per capita consumption of iron is increasing day-by-day and reached as much as 400 kgs. After fulfilling the domestic needs, Orissa has vigorously entered into the export trade of iron ores. Research and technological development has brought the evolutionary changes in steel industries to consume the low-grade iron ores. This provides a scope in increasing the reserve quantum by adding the ore rejects of as low as 45% Fe to the main domain.

14 tables, 24 ref

009575   Asadi S S;Vuppala P;Santosh Kumar K;Anji Reddy M (Centre for Environment, Institute of Science & Technology, JNTU, Hyderabad, Email: asadienviron@yahoo.com) : Evaluation and mapping of groundwater prospects zone using remote sensing and geographical information system. J Geophys 2009, 30(1-4), 63-71.

The groundwater potential zones are delineated in parts of Hyderabad and Mahabubnagar districts of Andhra Pradesh lying between 78° 30' & 78° 45'E longitude and 17° & 17° 15'N latitude using IRS-ID satellite PAN (Panchromatic) and LISS-III (Linear Imaging Self Scanner) geocoded data by Geographic Information system (GIS) on 1:50,000 scale. The information on structure, geomorphology and hydrology were generated and integrated to prepare a composite groundwater prospect map for the study area. The present study focuses on the utility of remote sensing data in the identification of suitable zones for groundwater exploration in a complex terrain of the study area. Areas of less groundwater potential are identified from the final composite map and artificial recharge structures are recommended to increase groundwater levels in these areas in order to meet the future demands.

6 illus, 22 ref

008490   Vennila G;Subramani T;Elango L (Civil Engineering Dep, K.S. Rangasamy College of Technology, Tiruchengode-637 215) : GIS based groundwater quality assessment of Vattamalaikarai basin, Tamil Nadu, India. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(4), 585-92.

A detailed GIS based study on hydrochemistry of groundwater in Vattamalaikarai Basin, Tamil Nadu, India has been carried out to assess the quality of groundwater for determining its suitability for drinking purpose. Further, the spatial variation of various groundwater quality parameters over the basin has also been studied for January 2008. The area is underlained by crystalline rocks of peninsular gneissic complex, comprising of hornblende-biotite-gneiss and charnokite. Black, alluvial, and calcareous soils are major soil types in this region. Fifty nine groundwater samples spread over the basin have been collected from open and tube wells during January 2008. The physicochemical parameters have been compared with the standard guideline values as recommended by the WHO for drinking and public health. The abundance of major ions in groundwater is in the following order: Na⁺ <62> Mg²⁺ <62> Ca²⁺ <62> K⁺ = Cl^- SO₄^2- HCO₃^- <62> NO₃^- <62> CO₃^2- TDS widely varied from 124 to 4270 mg/L with an average value of 1422 mg/L, and at 24 locations it exceeds the maximum allowable limit of 1500 mg/L leading to unsuitability of groundwater in nearly 40% of the total basin area. TDS exhibits good positive correlation with Na⁺, Mg²⁺ and Cl^-. Groundwater of the basin belongs to hard to very hard water category since the total hardness (TH) exceeds the permissible limit of 500 mg/L prescribed for drinking water. Nitrate concentration in groundwater also widely varies from 0 mg/l to 647 mg/L with an average value of 125 mg/L. Forty four well samples out of 59 exceed the maximum allowable limit of 45 mg/L (60% of the total basin area). Fluoride is also high (<62> 1.5 mg/L) in groundwater at 17 locations, which may cause dental fluorosis.

7 illus, 5 tables, 22 ref

008489   Susiganeshkumar E;Elangovan R (Statistics Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: susijk@rediffmail.com) : Predicting the growth of manpower for the Tamilnadu sofware industry (India). Ultra Scient phys Sci 2009, 21(2M), 377-92.

Manpower is a term which means a group of persons who have acquired some particular skill or expertisation to undertake a particular type of job. There are various milestones one has to cross to adopt a particular skill or background to perform a job. Tamilnadu software industry has undergone a substantial expansion over the past few years. This has necessitated a corresponding increase in output of suitably qualified graduates from the appropriate training institutions. It is therefore desirable to determine the current and projected size of the industry and to establish whether the projected supply of qualified manpower is sufficient to maintain the current rate of growth.A detailed survey of a representative sample of these firms is then carried out and used to estimate recruitment, transfer, promotion and leaving rates.

25 illus, 14 tables, 8 ref

008488   Sivakuamr C;Elango L (Geology Dep, Anna Univ, Chennai-600 025) : Assessment of water quality in Kalpakkam region, Tamil Nadu. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(4), 687-91.

Assessment of water quality in a region is important as water is used for domestic and agricultural purposes. In most parts of south India groundwater is used extensively for domestic and agricultural purposes. The aim of this study was to assess the water quality of Kalpakkam region based on the major ions. Geologically, this study area has two distinct formations: crystalline charnockite rocks of Archean age and quaternary/recent sediments. The quaternary/recent sediments, weathered and fractured crystalline charnockite function as an unconfined aquifer system. The hydrogeochemical characteristics of water and its quality were studied from physico-chemical analysis of the water samples. Two characteristic facies were determined based on the results of hydrochemical analyses: (1) Na-CI and (2) Ca-Mg-CI facies are dominant in this region. Groundwater from the study unit is generally good for drinking purposes. However, samples from some wells exceeded drinking water standards established by the BIS for EC, TDS, sodium, chloride and sulphate ions.

3 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

008487   Sharma M R (NO, M.G. Institute of Engineering and Technology, Badhu Tehsil Chachyot, D, ) : Water quality of traditional drinking water sources in outer Himalayas-a case study of Hamirpur district, H.P.. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(4), 677-81.

The study deals with the analysis of waters from traditional sources of drinking water like wells, baories and khatries in the Hamirpur district of Himachal Pradesh. Average pH value of the samples for the wells and baories is less than 7.0, but more than 7.0 for khatries. The average value of electrical conductivity for the wells and baories is much higher than the value for the khatries. Total alkalinity value for all the sources is almost the same. The total hardness value for the khatries is slightly more than the value for the wells and baories. The chloride content for the khatries is slightly higher than the value for the wells and baories. The calcium value of khatries is slightly higher than wells and baories. Bacteriological contamination is more in wells and baories than khatries. The water in 60% wells, 55% baories and 36% khatries is contaminated and not fit for human consumption.

4 tables

008486   Sharma A;Prakash B (Zoologoy Dep, Government College, Ajmer-305 001) : Fluride contamination in groundwaters of Masoda tehsil of Ajmer district, Rajasthan. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(4), 667-70.

Fluoride in water is mostly of geological origin. The control of drinking water quality from groundwaters is critical in preventing fluorosis. A physico-chemical analysis of available groundwater drinking resources in 10 villages of Masooda tehsil of Ajmer was carried out. The analytical results revealed considerable variations in chemical composition of water samples. Fluoride concentration varied from 0.5 to 6.7 ppm, causing dental and skeletal fluorosis amongst people.

2 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

008485   Shakeel S;Kanth T A (P.G. Geography Dep, University of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006) : Landscape approach to land classification study of a Liddar river basin in Kashmir Himalaya. Ann Natn Ass Geogr 2008, 28(1), 64-72.

3 illus, 4 tables, 4 ref

008484   Samanta S K (NO, Chandernagore College, Chandernagore, Hugli, West Bengal) : Increasing landslides in the southern Singalila range. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(1), 144-7.

Like other parts of the Himalayan mountain system the Southern Singalila Range shows a very weak geological structure alongwith some typical natural hazards like landslide, rockslide, debris avalanche and gully erosion. Occurrences of these hazards are very frequent over the region, especially during the monsoonal months; and destroy widely the local resources including human lives. Not only the weak structure but many other natural as well as anthropogenic factors also make the hill track vulnerable to landslide and other types of mass movement which have been accelerated in the last three decades. The present paper is looking through these factors attentively and tries to suggest some remedial measures to retard the intensity of such destructive events over the mountain range in future.

1 illus, 4 ref

008483   Saha K;Bhattacharya K (Geography Dep, Guskara Mahavidyala, Guskara, Burdwan-713 128) : Coal mining, coalfire and environment : two case studies in Raniganj and Jharia coalfied, India. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(1), 181-90.

Coal is one of the most used non-renewable energy resource in the most developing countries. With time, the use of coal as a major energy resource has increased in the industrial sector as well as other sectors. With many environmental problems such as land degradation, subsidence; occurrence of coalfire is very common in most coal producing countries. India, one of the largest producers of coal, is highly depended on energy produced from coal. With a total reserve of seventy billion tonnes, it accounts for 5.7% of the proved coal reserve of the world. After first official discovery in eighteenth century in Raniganj, till date Raniganj coalbelt along with Jharia coalfield, is the largest producer of coal in India. The 70% of India's total power generation comes from thermal power plants, which is mostly coal powered. As a major contributor in energy sector these coal producing areas are seriously affected by extensive mining operations. Other than intensive changing of local landuse/Landcover, numerous environmental problems such as air/water pollution, degradation of cultivable land, subsidence, coalfire are common phenomenon in these areas. The present paper focuses on the major environmental problems that are directly related with mining operations in Raniganj and Jharia coalfield areas in a comparative approach.

2 illus, 5 tables, 25 ref

008482   Roy M (Post Graduate Geography Dep, Smt. Parvatiai Chowgule College of Arts and Science, Margao, Goa-403 601) : Geographical appraisal of the Khandepar river basin of Goa. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(1), 119-27.

Analysis of morphometric characteristics is an important set of tools that can be applied for the study of physical and hydrological conditions in a river basin. Some of the linear, a real and relief aspects of the Khandepar river basin (493 sq. km.) of the Mandovi river system of Goa have been studied in this paper. The study is based on Survey of India topographical sheets of 1:50000 scale for measuring the morphometric parameters. IRS ID LISS III digital satellite data has been studied to understand the present situation of the environmental characteristics of the river basin. Some remote sensing techniques like NDVI and NDWI have been applied to study the characteristics of the river's catchment area. The river shows a highly meandering course in its lower stage with distinct structural control on the drainage pattern in its upper stage. Higher values of drainage density correspond with higher values of average slope and dissection index, thereby indicating the pervious nature of the underlying rocks. The basin has an elongated shape. Large scale degradation of the natural forest cover is revealed from application of NDVI, which has occurred in the river basin where mining is the most important activity. Turbidity of the river water due to washing of the mining wastes if found from NDWI study.

6 illus, 1 tables, 11 ref

008481   Roy D K;Roy M K;Sultan-Ui-Islam M;Abdur Rahman (Geology and Mining Dep, Rajshahi Univ, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh) : Lithofacies and depositional environments of the lower Tipam sandstone in the Hari river section, Jaintyiapur, Sylhet, Bangladesh. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(1), 34-46.

Lithofacies of the well exposed Lower Tipam Sandstone along the both banks of the Hari River section near Lalakhal, Jaintiapur, Sylhet has been analysed to interprete the paleoenvironments of deposition. The Lower Tipam Sandstone is composed of conglomerate, pebbly sandstone, coarse to fine-grained sandstone, siltstone, shale and mudstone. The main sedimentary facies of the Lower Tipam Sandstone are Gm, Gt, St, Sp, Sr, SI, Fl and Fm. The dominating St facies along with facies Sp indicates the deposition under braided river of fluvial regime. Channel association includes the facies Gm, St and large-scale Sp, suggesting channelized fluvial environment in braided stream. Bar top deposit includes small-scale Sp, Sr, SI and Fl facies that indicate the channel bars were of braided stream. The overbank association includes facies Fl and Fm. Negligible presence of fine-grained lithofacies indicating that braided streams were flanked by floodplain associated with flood deposit during the seasons of overflow. The dominant paleocurrent azimuth lies in between 180" to 240%, which indicate the flows were from north to southwestern direction. The grain size is mostly coarser with negligible finer elastics having poor to moderate sorting. Paleochannels of the depositing medium were of high sloped (16% to 22%) braided stream. Facies model suggest fining upward and facies relationship diagram of cylindrical shape. The grain size, shape, facies sequence, association, paleocurrent pattern and paleoslope indicate single source of sediments and depositing medium were heavily loaded low sinuous and high sloped braided streams in a piedmont set up.

6 illus, 5 tables, 41 ref

008480   Rai V K (Geography Dep, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-5) : Groundwater quality assessment for irrigation in Varanasi and its environs. Ann Natn Ass Geogr 2008, 28(1), 73-82.

3 illus, 3 ref

008479   Paul K (Research Scholar, Geography Dep, Culcutta Univ, 34, D-Road, Anandapuri, Barrackpore, P.O.-Nonachandanpukur Dist. 24 Parganas(N), West Bengal) : Resource appraisal of chilika lagoon with particular emphasis on water resource management. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(1), 27-33.

The brackish water lagoon Chilika is under ecological strain by the impact of man and environment. The environment conditions of Chilika has been so much distressed that it is showing the signs of eutrophication and siltation which are the major reasons for the shrinkage of its area. Both geomorphic and human induced processes have their role in the environmental degradation of the Chilika lagoon. Apart from this, the proposed river water linking throughout India will also lead to a devastating effect on this mighty lagoon. Since all the lagoon over a geological time scale are short lived, Chilika will also be turned to fresh water followed by marshy area and finally a fertile land. The lagoon size is reducing at an alarming rate of 1.42 sq.km. / year and about 0.365 million tonnes of silt is drained into it per year. Thus, the euryhaline nature of the lagoon is badly threatened. Due to the physiographic changes and anthropogenic intervention the topography and original character of the lagoon have been fast degrading. Finally, the environment of the lagoon is under threat resulting a marked fall in fish yield especially the prized prawn catch. Presently the lagoon bed soil is sand-clay to sand-salty-clay in nature. The huge mud deposition has enriched it with high organic carbon and available nitrogen reserve. Salinity, the, vital parameter in brackish water ecosystem, which influences the natural productivity of the lagoon for the growth of fish and prawn has gone down in the main lagoon. Yet there can be measures to slow this process. Such water resource management has been discussed in the paper that will upgrade the lagoon environment and water quality, which is the urgent need today.

3 illus, 3 ref

008478   Nag S K;Mishra A K (Geology Sciences Dep, Jadavpur Univ, Kolkata-700 032) : Stress on ground water resources in Kolkata city and scope for rain water harvesting for augmenting ground water resources. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(1), 52-6.

The water requirement for Kolkata city dwellers is principally (<126>80%) met from the river Hugli. But the rapid increase of population in Kolkata city area, particularly during the last four decades, has greatly increased the demand of water for domestic use. The increasing demand for water has necessitated utilization of surface water resources and enhancing pressure on alternate sustainable sources to supplement the demand. This has promoted dependence on vast resources of underground reservoir, which acts like a storehouse for groundwater. Natural replenishment of groundwater is inconsistent due to vagaries of monsoon and excessive continued exploitation of groundwater at a rate greater than replenishment. Construction of concrete structures has reduced natural replenishment potential of ground water. Excessive development of groundwater has invariably posed serious environmental problems. Though the city receives a considerably high rainfall (to the tune of 1650mm annually) but much of it cannot recharge the aquifer beause of paving of the ground leaving very little area to recharge and also due to natural presence of a very thick clay bed from the ground level down to a depth of 20m which effectively prevents the aquifer to receive in situ recharge from rain water. Due to large-scale withdrawal of groundwater from the aquifers, the piezometric level has gone down 5-9m during the last four decades. If this situation is continued, there would be a threat of land subsidence in future. In order to augment and conserve groundwater resource, artificial recharge of groundwater has become increasingly important for effective management. Artificial recharge is a technique of augmentation of water resources, diverting surface water into groundwater reservoir by constructing various recharge structures. Augmenting recharge to groundwater shall lead to rise in groundwater levels, improvement in water supply, saving in energy costs for pumping, improvement in water quality and environment and above all sustainability of groundwater sources. Availability of rainwater is quite high in the Kolkata city area and if properly diverted and conserved, artificial recharge will not only increase the groundwater availability, but also help in reducing the water scarcity problem in Kolkata city area. Rain water harvesting practice in Kolkata city for direct use of stored water and also for organized artificial recharge of the aquifer through harvested rainwater will go a long way for sustainable management of groundwater resources of the Mega City.

2 ref

008477   Nag N (NO, Geology Co-operative Colege, Jamshedpur-831 004) : Configuration of slopes in the Sanay basin of west Singhbhum district of Jharkhand state. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(1), 47-51.

The human settlement, field pattern, soil characters, irrigation problems, pattern of agriculture, development of forests all are determined by the slope configuration of any area. The communication and transport system also depends on the slope, as these system always prefer easy terrain i.e., flat surfaces or very gentle slope. Besides land for establishment of the industries, power development project, mining activities, preservation of environment etc., all depend on the topography and landscape of that area. The slope angle in the Sanjay drainage system (height more than 850m to 140m from m.s.i.) ranges from below 5% to above 35% in the entire basin. These high values are mainly associated near the confluence point of the Sanjay and the Kharkai, which indicate high erosive activity of the Sanjay Nadi and high dissection of basin.

2 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

008476   Mukhopadhyay S C (Geography and Former Head, Geography Dep, Calcutta Univ, 35, Kolkatta) : Environmental geomorphology and fluvial hazards of the lower Brahmaputra basin. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(1), 194-215.

This is a study on environmental geomorphological problems of the Lower Brahmaputra Basin concerning its physical and cultural parameters both qualitatively and quantitatively. The resourceful Brahmaputra Basin with complex landscape and drainage patterns is marked by the occurrence of several geomorphic hazards like floods, landslide, soil erosion including accelerated soil erosion, river bank erosions, channel bed shifting, earthquakes are of particular environmental geomorphological interest in the study of changing environmental scenario of this part of the tectonically unstable terrain of North Eastern and portions of Eastern Regions, India. After elucidating the geomorphic personalities of the three constituent Geo-Divisons -A, B and C a number of suggestions have been offered which this author thinks as most suitable towards the sustainable development as presented in the text.

9 illus, 8 tables, 17 ref