006105   Mondal N C;Ahmed S (Aquifer Mapping Group, CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute, Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: ncmngri@gmail.com) : Landscape entropy approach to demarcate pathways for oozing of water in a desert area in India. Curr Sci 2015, 109(1), 148-57.

Oozing of groundwater in Jodhpur city in the desert area of Rajasthan, India has caused weakening of foundations and cellars of buildings and shops. It has become more significant since 1996 when Kaylana lake was connected with Rajiv Gandhi Lift Canal (RGLC) water supply and filling of the lake had started. This has resulted in fear among dwellers < about any future calamity. The hydrogeological, hydrochemical and isotopic studies clearly indicated that the lake water is responsible for the oozing phe- nomenon in the area. This article highlights a landscape entropy approach to assess pathways causing rise in the level of groundwater integrating the measured lake water level and groundwater table in a few selected wells in the city. With the fractional information of lake water and groundwater, marginal entro- pies of lake water and depths to groundwater in the selected wells sites are calculated. Mutual information, on common uncertainty associated in the measurements of lake water and groundwater, is also provided. Subsequently, ratios of mutual information to marginal entropy of the lake water are used as a measure for demarcating the pathways of weak zones, which correlate well with the lineaments delineated from satellite imagery. The results of this study represent a base for additional insight on future work, which will help in tracing the connectivity of weak zones causing oozing of water in Jodhpur city, and evolving a plan for remedial measures.

7 illus, 4 tables, 27 ref

006104   Kumar R;Yadav G S (Geophysics Dep, BHU, Varanasi, Email: rajan.08.ism@gmail.com) : Detection of fractured zones in part of hard rock area of Mirzapur district, Uttar Pradesh, using integrated geophysical method. Mausam 2015, 66(2), 299-310.

Amplitude of analytic signal of real component of very low frequency electromagnetic (VLF-EM) and resistivity method were used to determine the location of fracture zone in part of hard rock area of Mirzapur district, Uttar Pradesh, India. The satellites Imagery was used to delineate the lineament besides prior information for appropriate locations using integrated geophysical surveys. The VLF-EM data was acquired along the six VLF traverses profiles. The results were obtained using Fraser and Karous-Hjelt filters to correlate with the Hilbert transform and amplitude of analytic signal of real component of VLF-EM data and the amplitude of the 2-D analytic signal of the real component in the form of an image of the profile. The real component of the Hilbert transform generates an approximate depth of fracture zone in part of hard rock area. It was correlated with results based on resistivity sounding and geoelectrical cross section.

7 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

006103   Gore P G (NO, , India Meteorological Dep, Pune, India, Email: pg55.gore@imd.gov.in) : Droughts over Andhra Pradesh. Mausam 2015, 66(2), 313-16.

9 illus, 2 table, 11 ref

006102   Arjunan M;Achyuthan H (Geology Dep, Anna Univ, Chennai-600 025, Email: hachyuthan@yahoo.com) : Tafoni along the east coast, Chennai to Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu. Curr Sci 2015, 109(1), 195-201.

Study on weathering pits called tafoni was carried out on rock surfaces that age from a few hundreds to millions of years along the east coast between Chennai and Mamallapuram. Tafoni of varying sizes and shapes such as simple circular dots to oblate to prolate, hemispherical to spherical are formed on the granite, granite gneiss, charnockites (acid and mafic) and sandstone both on exposed and inner wall surfaces. In this study, their formation is related to not only tropical weathering processes, but also to sea salt water splays causing salt mineral etching, weathering processes, besides microbial activity, algal and lichen growth accentuating their formation.

4 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

005060   Singh O;Amrita (Geography Dep, Kurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra-136 119) : Groundwater availability and utilisation in Haryana : a geographical study. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2015, 23(1), 36-41.

Water plays a very important role in human life. As a resource, it is indispensable for the economic development of a country. Agriculture is a majar sector in Haryana. Due to scarcity of surface water resources, the utilization of groundwater is very important for the state's economy. Therefore, it is important to know the groundwater availability and its utilization. In the present paper, the study on groundwater availability and utilization has been carried out with the help of secondary data. Tables and maps have been drawn to know the spatial variability. The results revealed that about 9.80 hectare meter groundwater was available in the state during the year 2009. However, the consumption of this groundwater resource in the state was around 12.43 lakh hectare meter. Agriculture sector is the major consumer of groundwater which is utilized for carrying out the irrigation. Apart from this, 13 districts in the state are over-exploited, 5 are critical, whereas only 3 districts are safe from groundwater development. Availability of groundwater in the state can be enhanced by enriching annual recharge capacity, recycling of water both in industrial and domestic sector and roof top water harvesting.

3 illus, 2 tables, 4 ref

005059   Singh A K;Kumar S R (KVK, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, South Tripura-799 144, Email: singhak30@gmail.com ) : Quality assessment of groundwater for drinking and irrigation use in semi-urban area of Tripura, India. Ecol Envir Conserv 2015, 21(1), 97-108.

Ground water quality of urban and rural area of Agartala (Tripura State, India) was studied to examine the suitability or otherwise of their use for drinking and irrigation purposes. Twenty one ground water samples were randomly collected during post monsoon season and analysed with reference to the World Health Organization (WHO) standards and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The analysed data was validated using the best-fitted models. Interpretation of analytical data shows that Na-K-HCO₃ and Ca- Mg-HCO₃ are the dominant hydrochemical facies in the study area. The percent sodium level of samples indicated that 90 per cent samples are in permissible category of the sodium hazards for agricultural applications. The US salinity diagram illustrates that most of the groundwater samples fall in the field of C1S1, indicating low salinity and low sodium water, which can be used for irrigation on almost all type of soil. Other best-fitted model, like Permeability Index (PI), Kelly's Index (KI), Wilcox classification, SAR and RSC values also indicate that ground water is moderate to good for irrigation purposes. However, the presence of certain degree of cations, anions, iron and heavy metals indicates that the ground water in the study area is facing stress which could change the quality of the water in the near future.

12 illus, 2 tables, 40 ref

005058   Mushtaq M;Gul A;Shaista;Sharma B;Singh H; Singh R (Zoology Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara, Punjab, Email: rahulsingh.mlkzoology@gmail.com) : Ground water analysis of Kapurthala district (Punjab) in respect of some physico-chemical parameters. Ecol Envir Conserv 2015, 21(1), 277-80.

Groundwater quality changes according to different parameters such as geology of particular area, depth of water table and composition of dissolved salts seasonal changes. Main reason for the water pollution is the discharge of untreated industrial effluents directly into the rivers and streams resulting in high level of pollution in the surface water as well as groundwater. People are more to stomach and digestive system diseases like skin problem, nail problem, diarrhea with fever and dysentery etc. which is the direct effect of polluted water used for drinking and for irrigation purposes. Due to rapid industrialization, urbanization and agricultural industries, TDS and EC values are found to be higher than desirable limit in Kapurthala. Highest TDS and values have been observed in Ahli kalan. This may be because of anthropogenic activities, leaching and agricultural activities. In Kapurthala and Ahli kalan, the value of total hardness exceeds the permissible limit. Industrialization, sewage disposal, excessive use of fertilizers and leaching may be the possible cause for hardness in these areas. In Kala sanga the concentration of free chlorine is found to be higher than the desirable limit. Among heavy metals, the concentration of copper has been found to be higher than the desirable limit in Kapurthala and Ahli kalan. Human activities, natural sources (like windblown dust, decaying vegetation, forest fires, sea sprays), agricultural and industrial activities may be the sources of higher concentration of copper in these two areas. In three different areas of Phagwara tehsil most of the Physico-Chemical parameters are within the desirable limit as prescribed by BIS except EC and total hardness in Rihaan jattan which are above the desirable limit. Higher value of EC and total hardness in this area may be due to the anthropogenic activities, agricultural activities and leaching.

1 table, 7 ref

005057   Mosavinasab S A;Shamsnia S A (Water Engineering Dep, College of Agriculture, Shiraz Branch Islamic Azad Univ, Shiraz, Iran, Email: ashamsnia_82@yahoo.com) : Analysis of critical threshold of effective heat stress on crop yield and their mapping in fars province. Ecol Envir Conserv 2015, 21(1), 41-7.

Temperature is one of the most important parameters affecting plant growth and yield production. Higher temperatures increase the threshold Plants water requirement, reduce physiological activities in order to reduce the thermal stress to which they are called. Tolerance of plants in relation to each of the meteorological parameters is limited and any abnormalities in these parameters can have significant direct or indirect effects on agricultural production affect. In the present study, the critical threshold of heat stress for wheat cultivation in Fars Province was evaluated and the equations for each critical threshold are presented. Finally mapping of the entire province of heat stress has been done. According to the requirements of the average for wheat, thermal thresholds of 30, 35 and 40 ° C as the maximum temperature and 20 ° C as the minimum temperature has been considered. The evaluation results showed that the southern part of Fars Province consists mainly Larestan, Mohr and Khonj and northwestern parts including Kazeroon and Mamasani are more susceptible to heat stress and Mean while larestan and mamasani more than other areas suffer from stress. In most cases, periods of heat stress coincide during germination and flowering of wheat culture in Fars Province. Maps provided by climatological analysis helps to agriculture managers to estimate Probability of favorable or unfavorable atmospheric events in later stages of crop development with high accuracy. These predictions can be used in practical farming and long-term planning.

10 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

005056   Hidayah Z;Rosyid D M;Armono H D (Faculty of Marine Technology, Sepuluh November Institute of Technology, Malang, Indonesia) : GIS application in monitoring distribution of mangrove ecosystem of Southern Madura. Ecol Envir Conserv 2015, 21(1), 487-93.

Mangrove forests are one of the coastal ecosystems that have significant ecological, economical value and act as natural barrier against coastal erosion. However, the increase of human population and the need to expand settlements and industrial areas makes mangrove ecosystems vulnerable. Objectives of this research are: firstly to measure the change of mangrove's area on southern part of Madura Island using satellite imagery data from different period, secondly to classify the area based on their vegetation density and finally to model the statistical relationship between pixel value which is calculated using the NDVI algorithm and the actual vegetation density. Results of a series Land sat data analysis showed that mangrove's area of Southern Madura has been declined intensively. Illegal logging and land use changing were found to be the main cause of the destruction of mangrove forest in this area. In order to prevent the further destruction of mangrove ecosystem, cooperation between government and most importantly local people is a must.

3 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

005055   Haghparast M;Pirkharrati H;Alizadeh E (Environmental Geology, Urmia Univ, Urmia, Iran, Email: mhaghparast99@yahoo.com) : Investigating groundwater quality (salinity) and environmental impacts of rashakan plain. Ecol Envir Conserv 2015, 21(1), 73-7.

One of the important reasons of sustainable development of a region is to supply sufficient and suitable sources for different utilizations. In spite of quantity, quality of water is very significant. Evaluating origin of groundwater salinity in Rashakan plain is the purpose of this investigation. For this study 11 wells were chosen. Analysis of geological and zoning maps demonstrates that salinity in central and shouter parts of plain is much higher than standard limit. There are some reasons for salinity such as: excessive exploitation and declining the water of aquifers, high ion concentration and evaporative formation in this region.

10 illus, 3 tables, 7 ref

004269   Yadav G S;Muthamilselvan A;Shaji T S;Nanda L K;Rai A K (Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research, , Jamshedpur-831 002, Email: gsyadav.amd@gov.in) : Recognition of a new albitite zone in Northern Rajasthan: its implications on uranium mineralization. Curr Sci 2015, 108(11), 1994-8.

6 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

004268   Vishwakarma N;Thomas H (Applied Geology Dep, Natioal Institute of Technology, Raipur (C G), Email: nvishwakarma.geo@nitrr.ac.in) : Petrographic and geochemical characteristics of charnockite from a Sind, district - Bhilwara, Rajasthan: implications for its origin. J appl Geochem 2015, 17(1), 10-21.

The charnockite rocks around Asind are intrusive into the rocks of Banded Gneissic Complex (BGC). Petrographic characteristics suggest that the orthopyroxene in charnockite was derived from the dehydration of in-situ biotite. The presence of biotite + garnet rich aluminous enclaves within charnockite indicates assimilation of charnokitic magma through partial melting of pre-existing crustal segments prior to their re-crystallization. As per geochemical signature charnockite of Asind are metaluminous, ferroan and calc-alkalic to calcic nature. The SiO₂ and normative hyperesthene content varies from 62.17-69.15% and 4.94-16.8 respectively. The rock shows normal magmatic differentiation trend of calc-alkaline magma with FeO/MgO ratio of 4.62-5.84. The higher LREE/HREE ratio (70.11-679.65) and (La/Yb)N (4.27-12.13) ratio along with prominent negative Eu anomaly indicate highly evolved nature of magma with its origin from asthenospheric mantle source. Development of garnet-clinopyroxene-quartz rim around hyperesthene against its contact with plagioclase marks the boundary between intermediate to high pressure granulite. The Y3Ga ternary discrimination plot and Sc/Nb vs. Y/Nb binary discrimination plot suggest the affinity of Asind charnockite with A-2 subgroup. These charnockite were emplaced into the rocks of BGC under anorogenic tectonic setting.

11 illus, 1 table, 46 ref

004267   Srikanth S (NO, CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur-831 007, Email: ssrikanth@nmlinidia.org) : Some recent technological achievements of CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory. Curr Sci 2015, 108(11), 2014-16.

Recent technological advancements at CSIR-NML are highlighted with special reference to magnesium technology, strategic metals (tungsten and sodium), column flotation, potash from feldspar and, utilization of iron ore fines and slimes. Notable developments pertaining to annealing simulator and, lacquer and energy efficient furnaces for brassware artisans are brought to focus.

2 illus

004266   Singh Y;Nayak S;Shobhita K;Pandit P S C;Shiv Kumar K (Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research, , Begumpet, Hyderabad, Email: yamunasingh.amd@gov.in) : Petrology and geochemistry of palaeoproterozoic mafic dykes from Kawadgaon, Central India: petrogenetic and tectonic implications. J appl Geochem 2015, 17(1), 22-31.

The petrographic studies on mafic dykes (MDs) from the Kawadgaon area, Bastar Craton, Central India, reveal that they contain plagioclase feldspar and hornblende as major minerals, epidote, biotite, apatite and titanite as accessory and the opaques are represented by pyrite and iron oxide (magnetite). Geochemically, the major and minor oxide data (average contents) indicate 48.39% SiO₂, 1.28% TiO₂, 12.61% Al₂O₃, 15.56% Fe₂O₃ (total), 5.73% MgO, 0.20 % MnO, 9.78% CaO, 0.25% P₂O₅ and 3.2% total alkalis (Na₂O + K₂O) with Mg# varying from 31 to 61. Trace element abundances (average contents) are 151 ppm Cr, 63 ppm Co, 71 ppm Ni, 153 ppm Cu, 104 ppm Zn, 17 ppm Ga, 45 ppm Rb, 121 ppm Sr, 38 ppm Y, 77 ppm Zr and 200 ppm Ba. Total alkali-silica (TAS) diagram shows sub-alkaline tholeiitic nature. The AI, Fe't) + Ti and Mg cation triangular plots also suggest the MDs to be of tholeiitic basalt-type, which is further supported by the presence of iron oxide. Differentiation of major oxides points out fractionation of major mineral constituents including plagioclase and crystallization of accessory minerals like apatite and titanite at later stages. Discrimination diagrams suggest Mid-Oceanic Ridge Basalt-type tectonic setting for the genesis of the investigated MDs.

11 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

004265   Siddiquie F N;ALi S A;Bhat S H;Burhamuddin Kh (Geology Dep, A M U, ALigarh, U P, Email: fnaseem2000@yahoo.com) : Genetic association of trace elements with special emphasis on Cu, Ni and Cr in the manganese ores of Vizianagram district, Andhra Pradesh, India. J appl Geochem 2015, 17(1), 66-77.

6 illus, 4 tables, 39 ref

004264   Sharma S D;Srinivasan R (NO, CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute, Uppal Road, hyderabad-500 007, Email: sdassharma@ngri.res.in) : Stable isotope evidence for ca. 2.7-Ga-old Archean cap carbonates from the Dharwar Supergroup, Southern India. Curr Sci 2015, 108(12), 2223-9.

Carbon isotope compositions of carbonate rocks from ~2.7-Ga-old Neoarchean Vanivilas Formation of the Dharwar Supergroup presented earlier by us are re-evaluated in this study, besides oxygen isotope compositions of a few silica-dolomite pairs. The purpose of such a revisit assumes significance in view of recent field evidences that suggest a glaciomarine origin for the matrix-supported conglomerate member, the Ta-lya conglomerate, which underlies the carbonate rocks of the Vanivilas Formation. An in-depth analysis of carbon isotope data reveals preservation of their pristine character despite the rocks having been subjected to metamorphism to different degrees (from lower greenschist to lower amphibolite facies). The dolomitic member of Vanivilas Formation of Marikanive area is characterized by highly depleted δ^{13C value (up to -5% VPDB) and meritsas the Indian example of ca. 2.7-Ga-old cap carbonate. This inference is further supported by estimated low temperature of equilibra-tion documented by a few silica-dolomite pairs from the Vanivilas Formation collected near Kalche area. These pairs show evidence for oxygen isotopic equilibrium at low temperatures (~0-20°C) with depleted water (δ18O=-21% to-15% VSMOW) of glacial origin. We propose that the mineral pairs were deposited during the deglaciation period when the ocean temperature was in its gradual restoration phase. The dolomite of Marikanive area is the first record of cap carbonates from the Indian subcontinent with Neoar-chean antiquity.}

3 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

004263   Shanmukha Rao M;Bhaskar G U (SCCL, , Kothagudem, Email: ms_rao_gp@yahoo.com) : Geological and geotehnical characterisation using geophysical logs - an example from Adriyala longwall project of Singareni Collieries, Telangana, India. J Indian Geophys Union 2015, 19(3), 270-81.

Studies conducted at Adriyala longwall block of Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) in the state of Telangana, India conclude that geophysical logs comprising electrical, density, neutron, caliper, Full Waveform Sonic (FWS) and acoustic image probes can provide reliable geological and geotechnical models required for longwall milling. The basic lithological details, sedimentary features and associated geotechnical risks are interpreted using these logs. The P wave velocities obtained from sonic logs are correlated with the lab determined strength parameters such as uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), Tensile Strength (TS) and Young's Modulus. The empirical equations provided a means to construct UCS map of interburden strata of coal seams from sonic data which optimised depending on available core data. The Geophysical Strata Rating (GSR) similar to Coal Mines Roof Rating (CMRR) and Rock Mass Rating (RMR) has also been applied to assess the competency of interburden strata right at the exploration stage itself. The insitu stress directions and master cleats orientation are determined from the acoustic image logs. UCS and GSR maps prepared from geological and geophysical inputs provided an effective means to analyse the competency of immediate overburden of 23m to 28m (SS-80) of Seam-I, which is considered for longwall mining. Seam-I was deposited in stable conditions resulting in uniform thickness of 6m of coal including that of 0.40m thick dirt band in the middle. Weak bed in the middle of Seam-I and intertonguing of clay of 1.20m thickness with sandstone along the immediate roof influence working sections and roof support system. Sandstones comprising the overburden strata of coal are very thick massive beds whose UCS and GSR ranges of 6MPa to 8MPa and 30% to 45% classify them as low strength and fair rocks respectively. These massive beds also contain thin to thick beds of good (45% to 60% GSR) and very good (60% to 80% GSR) rocks along with poor rocks having GSR of 15% to 30% at places. Very thick massive beds can create conditions of heavy periodic weighting during longwall extraction while the thin beds contained by it can act as separation planes and reduce the effective thickness of sandstone that could otherwise contribute to periodic weighting. GSR provides both petrophysical and geotechnical models where as the UCS maps provide details of intact strength only. Back analysis of behaviour of strata will validate and refine developing predictive models and appropriate strata control strategies to be applied at Adriyala and other mines and also for multiseam extraction.

8 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

004262   Sethuramasamyraja B;Simonian N;AUstin D (Industrial Technology Dep, California State University, Fresno 2255 E Barstow Ave, M/S IT 09, Fresno, CA 93740-8002, USA, Email: balajis@csufresno.edu) : Development of unmanned aerial vehicle systems for terrain mapping and geospatial data management. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(3), 404-15.

The application of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) for short range civilian applications has V reached new dimensions with the advent of modern yet affordable autonomous guidance systems. Low altitude light weight UAV systems were developed that have capability for semi-autonomous and autonomous way point navigation with a payload of sensing system. While UAV I was utilized to test the feasibility of application with manual control using radio control and first person wireless video, UAV II was built for autonomous flight and field data collection. With UAV II, in addition to an autopilot navigation system, a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) receiver and fight stabilization sensors were utilized for system stability and guidance during completely autonomous flights. Both the UAVs successfully performed in flight conditions for terrain mapping of property, range, agricultural and natural resource management with respect to initial test flights, flight parameter calibration and field trials. In UAV II, average calibration parameters were +/-0.64 deg. for pitch, +/-3.35 deg. for roll in speed range of 40 - 50 mph indicating good flight stability. The UAVs were tested over a user set waypoint path on fields, facilities/properties, and urban locales, altitude ranging 100 ft to 1000 ft, speed from 25 to 60 mph, and maneuvers including straight paths, turns, and banks. An autonomous image acquisition system was developed that records images and videos with onboard sensors at specified time, frequency and coverage area. Geo-referenced aerial images were created to 4 in. resolution using mosaic images and post processing software. UAV I and UAV II maintained intended flight path parameters within 55 ft. and 8.23 ft. spatial position or cross track error, respectively.

8 illus, 6 tables, 9 ref

004261   Saravanan Y E;Dharanirajan K (Disaster Management Dep, Pondicherry University, Port Vlair, Email: yuvaerd22@gmail.com) : Assessment of land use and land cover changes in south Andaman Island using remote sensing and GIS. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 171-81.

Remote Sensing and GIS techniques were used to study the landuse and landcover change in the South Andaman Island. The study assesses the spatial-temporal land use and land cover changes between 1979 and 2013 for the southern part of the South Andaman Island. IRS LISS IV satellite images were used to identify and map the various features of landscapes. In South Andaman Island the development of landuse is increasing steadily in the last three decades. The change in landuse prominently depends on the tourism, civil, defence and fishing sectors which plays an important economic role of development of the union territory. Settlement area developed from 1637 to 12083.55 ha from the last three decades varies from urban settlement with houses and major infrastructures where as rural settlement with adjacent vegetation. Port Blair is the capital city which connects through the mainland transportation, so the density of population is high around this city. Agricultural activities present in flat terrain and low lying areas which covers around 1345.31 ha. Plantations practices in flat terrain, coastal low-lying areas and hilly slopes of the island by clearing dense forest 2266.08 ha. These landuse developments threat the island ecosystem and have major impacts on the forest, almost 9689.28 ha of forest were cleared for the landuse purposes and nearly 492.94 ha of mangroves were cleared and degraded. The tourism and recreational activities increase stress on coral reefs and sandy beaches. Sandy beaches are the most threatened ecosystem in the study area exist only 38.52 ha. It is in need for the sustainable development of landuse in this island to protect the island ecosystem.

3 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

004260   Sangita Devi;Goswami D C (Environmental Science Dep, Gauhati University, Guwahati, Assam-781014, Email: sangitasarma164@gmail.com) : Morphometric characterization of gayung and sipu sub-basins of the subansiri river of the eastern himalayas. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(3), 482-91.

Morphometric analysis of a river basin provides a quantitative description of the drainage system which is an important aspect of its characterization. Morphometric analysis helps to understand various hydrologic phenomena of a river basin. An attempt has been made in this study to compute the morphometric parameters of the Gayung and Sipu sub-basins of the Subansiri river basin of eastern Himalaya using Remote Sensing and GIS techniques.

6 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

004259   Ratha Krishnan P;Jindal S K (NO, Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur0-342 003, Email: ratha_forestry@yahoo.co.in) : Khejri, the king of Indian Thar desert is under phenophase change. Curr Sci 2015, 108(11), 1987-90.

3 tables, 16 ref

004258   Randive K (Post Graduate Geology Dep, RTM Nagpur University, Nagpur-440 001, Email: randive101@yahoo.co.in) : Occurrence of unusual quartz xenocryst-laden dykes in the Chhota Udaipur alkaline-carbonatite sub-province, Deccan Igneous Province, India. Curr Sci 2015, 108(12), 2261-6.

Occurrence of unusual basaltic dykes laden with a dense population of quartz xenocrysts within the Chhota Udaipur alkaline-carbonatitic sub-province of the Deccan Igneous Province is reported here. These dykes occur near Rorda (22°07.890'N; 74°04.267'E) and Samalavat (22°05.586'N; 74°07.261'E). The xeno-crysts vary in size and shape and show effects of corrosion and partial assimilation by the host magma. These dykes have been affected by the carbonatitic fluids which commonly attack quartz xenocrysts, resulting in the formation of a complex growth pattern between quartz and carbonates. Mineralogical study confirms the presence of plagioclase, magnetite, ilmenite, rutile, chlorite, apatite, barytes and hydrated Fe-oxides. Original basaltic texture (sub-ophitic) and mineralogy (plagioclase, magnetite, ilmenite) is preserved, though pyroxenes are converted to chlorite; hematite, ilmenite, calcite and altered glassy material occur profusely in the groundmass. Basaltic dykes of such description have not so far been reported from the Deccan Igneous Province, although there are few references to the occurrence of quartz xenocrysts within basaltic dykes. It appears prima facie that quartzite xenoliths were selectively escalated by the basaltic magma at depth at the time of crustal extension leading to formation of Narmada rift; roughly co-inciding with the emplacement of alkaline-carbonatite magma.

3 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

004257   Ramu;Mahalingam B;Vinay M (Center for Geoinformatics Technology, Geography Dep, Maanasagangotri, University of Mysore, Mysore-06, Email: mahabose@gmail.com) : Identification of ground waer potential zones using GIS and Remote Sensing Techniques: a case study of Mysore taluk-Karnataka. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(3), 393-403.

The study is based on the secondary data, which is collected from concern department and through internet. Totally nine parameters have been consider for the study such as drainage density, elevation, geology, geomorphology,' land use and land cover, lineaments, dykes, rainfall pattern, slope gradient and soil texture. The selected parameters have been prepared and classified in GIS environment, then weightage for each parameters and its classes have been assigned using Analytical Hierarchical Process, then weighted overlay analysis in ArcGIS used to find out the result. The result of study has been compared with the collected sample data to assess the accuracy of result. The comparison of study's result and the collected sample data has given 95 per cent accuracy.

4 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

004256   Ramiz M M;Mondal M E A (Geology Dep, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002, Email: rfan.mondal@gmail.com) : Orbicular structures near Pichhore, Shivpuri district, Bundelkhand Craton: forerunner for geoheritage site. Curr Sci 2015, 109(4), 684-7.

3 illus, 10 ref

004255   Rameshchandra Phani P (Cyient limited, , Plot No. 11, Software Units Layout, Infocity, Madhapur, Hyderabad, Email: Ramesh.Pothuri@cyient.com) : Morphometry and its implications to stream sediment sampling: A study on Wajrakarur Kimberlite field, Penna river basin, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 74-90.

Morphometric analysis, including certain linear, areal and relief parameters, has been performed on watersheds covering pipes in the Wajrakarur kimberlite field (WKF) of Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh, using hydrological data in corroboration with lithological and structural information. In total, 64 morphometric parameters were calculated for the study area. Litho-structural set up revealed that drainage system is influenced by lineaments. Higher values of morphometric parameters like sinuosity index, bifurcation ratio, gradient ratio, ruggedness number, dissection index, Rho coefficient are indicative of trap site quality, in the study area. As a tool for conceptual understanding, morphometric analysis can be considered as a process step before planning indicator mineral sampling for a terrain, thereby deciphering the category of possible trap sites that can occur in the area of interest, before commencing the actual sampling programme. Taking the WKF as a case, a relation between certain morphometric properties and plausible quality of indicator mineral trap site has been envisaged in this paper. This conceptual relation is perhaps made for the first time.

4 illus, 6 tables, 41 ref

004254   Rais S;Javed A (Geology Dep, A.M.U., Aligarh, Email: subab.raisgeo@gmail.com) : Drainage characteristics of Manchi basin, Karauli district, Eastern Rajasthan using remote sensing and GIS techniques. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 104-18.

Attempt has been made to study drainage morphometry of Manchi basin, which covers an area of 235.67 km^{ý.Drainage Map prepared from Survey of India (SOI) toposheet and later updated from IRS-1C (LISS III) imagery to examine drainage characteristics. ASTER data is used for preparing Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and Slope map. Geographic Information System (GIS) is used in evaluation of linear, areal and relief aspects of morphometric parameters. Moderate drainage density 2.72 km/kmý indicate that the area is underlain by permeable sub surface material and has coarse to moderate drainage texture. The mean bifurcation ratio of entire basin is 5.2 which indicate that the drainage pattern is little influenced by geological structures. Analysis of shape parameters- form factor, elongation ratio, circularity ratio, suggests that the basin is in an elongated shape. Relief ratio indicates that the discharge capability of the basin is very high and the groundwater potential is meager. This study will be very useful for watershed management strategies and for planning rainwater harvesting structures within the sub-basin areas to conserve the natural resources.}

6 illus, 5 tables, 32 ref

004253   Rai S N;Thiagarajan S;Shankar G B K;Sateesh Kumar M;Venkatesam V;Mahesh G;Rangarajan R (Earth Sciences Dep, IIT Roorkee, Roorkee-246 667, U K, Email: snrai_ngri@yahoo.co.in) : Groundwater prospecting in Deccan traps covered Tawarja basin using electrical rsistivity tomography. J Indian Geophys Union 2015, 19(3), 256-69.

Acute shortage of water supply for domestic and irrigation purposes in hard rock area is accentuated by occurrence of groundwater in limited quantity within sparsely distributed aquifers characterised with secondary porosity of finite areal extent. Tawarja river basin is in drought prone Latur district of India falling in basaltic Deccan Volcanic Province (DVP). which occupies half a million square km area. Because of availability of limited quantity of groundwater in the shallower aquifers, ever increasing withdrawal of groundwater in excess to recharge is resulting in continuous declining of water table. As a result bore wells/ dug wells used for groundwater pumping from shallower aquifers often go dry, with the onset of summer season. Locating of groundwater potential zones by bore well drilling, in the absence of scientific investigations, is fraught with high percentage of failure. Therefore, delineation of deeper sources of groundwater with certainty based on scientific investigations is urgently needed to meet the ever increasing demand for water supply. This paper presents results of 2-D Electrical Resistivity Tomography carried out in part of Tawarja basin, a complex geo-environ, to demonstrate its efficacy in delineation of groundwater potential zones and sites of aquifer recharging. Several sites suitable for bore well drilling have been identified, which can be developed to meet the water supply demand in the investigated region.

8 illus, 2 tables

004252   Raghu Babu K (Geology Dep, Yogi Vemana University, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, Email: dr.kr@rediffmail.com) : Systematic mineral exploration studies in parts of Veligallu Schist belt, YSR district, A.P., India. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 146-60.

Systematic mineral exploration study involves conventional exploration techniques like identification of ore guides like stratigraphic, mineralogical, lithological, structural, geomorphological and geobotanical guides. Subsequently, establishment and characterization of spectral signatures displayed by various minerals in the study area using a geocoded IRS P6 LISS III image will be done. In preliminary studies the image corresponding to the study area is georectified with the Survey of India Toposheet No. 57J08. In the present study, stratigraphic, mineralogical, lithological and geomorphologilogical guides will be recognized and thematic maps were prepared by visual interpretation technique and the same is digitized by using GIS software. The thematic maps thus prepared are then compared with the ground truth. Then the spectral signatures were obtained by processing the image under material mapping and anomaly detection techniques for each mineral using USGS spectral library of ERDAS Imagine software. The spectral signatures of each mineral of USGS library obtained by the image processing are assigned to the location of the corresponding minerals in the study area by using GPS. Brecciated auriferous quartz reef associated with sulphide mineralization is identified along with wall rock alteration in the form of perceive biotization, silicification, sulphidisation and chloritisation in Veligallu Greenstone Belt. The study area shows old workings for extraction of gold and even shows pounding marks in flat rock beds around the villages in vicinity, which might have formed during process of winning gold from the host rock. The Geophysical, Geochemical data will be accumulated from other sources as done by the GSI and other organizations for the order of comparison with the present results.

25 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

004251   Prakash R;Srivastava H N (Center for Seismology, India Meteorological Dep, , Mausam Bhawan, Lodi Road, New Delhi-110 003erajesh.prakash@imd.gov.in) : Thermal anomalies in relation to earthquakes in India and its neighbourhood. Curr Sci 2015, 108(11), 2071-82.

Thermal anomalies based on satellite and surface meteorological data in the epicentral region prior to a few earthquakes in India and elsewhere have raised a question whether such inferences can be relied upon keeping in view larger meteorological variability associated with synoptic weather changes. This article examines outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) data by INSAT over Sikkim region to find whether any ano-maly developed prior to the earthquake of September 2011 (M_w 6.9). Similar study was made using surface meteorological data (weather observatories or NCAR grid point values) in the meizoseismal areas of Bhad-rachalam (1969, m_s 5.7), Kinnaur (1975, m_s 6.9), Bihar-Nepal (1988, m_{s 6.9), Uttarkashi (1991, ms 6.8), Latur (1993, ms 6.1), Jabalpur (1997, ms 5.6), Chamoli (1999, mb 6.5), Bhuj (2001, Mw 7.6) and Muzaffarabad (2005, Mw 7.6) earthquakes. The OLR data from INSAT were also examined during heat-wave conditions prevailing over northern India in summer during non-seismic conditions. It was found that there was no significant thermal anomaly prior to any earthquake in the Indian region. It has been shown that the pre-cursory thermal anomaly reported in earlier studies for Bhuj (2001), Muzaffarabad (2005), Jabalpur (1997) and Latur (1993) earthquakes was misinter-preted since the rise in surface temperature (if any) was found to be well within the meteorological variability caused by synoptic wather conditions. Persistent heat-wave conditions causing very large thermal anomaly for several days in northern India raise false alarms. The synthesis of the results presented in this study should desist geoscientists from considering thermal anomalies as earthquake precursors.}

11 illus, 2 tables, 34 ref

004250   Pesci A;Teza G;Boschi E (NO, Istito Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Sezione di Bologna, Email: arianna.pesci@ingv.it) : Laser scanning-based detection of morphological changes of a historical building occurred during a seismic sequence: method and cae study. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(3), 427-47.

A tall masonry building in an area hit by an earthquake could suffer of some damages whose detection and evaluation are necessary for both emergency management and planning of restoration works. A complete characterization of the health state of a potentially damaged structure requires an integration of data provided by several techniques, which could be impossible in earthquake emergency conditions. The duration of a seismic sequence can reach several months and the state of a tall building could change after each significant shock. Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) allows a fast and contactless acquisition as well as an accurate geometric modeling of a building and therefore can be used to evaluate the seismic-induced changes, possibly related to damages. The results of a study based on TLS monitoring the 100-m high Asinelli tower (Bologna, Italy), which is a very important element of the Italian medieval cultural heritage, during the 2012 Emilia Romagna seismic sequence are provided and discussed here. This work focuses on both method and case study. It is aimed to show how much information, reliable and accurate, can be extracted in a quick and simple way under alert conditions. Moreover, the structural behavior of the tower is provided. Considerations about natural oscillations of a tower subjected to seismic activity are also provided.

12 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

004249   Pandian M;Mumanan C J (Centre for Remote Sensing Dep, Bharat hidasan University, Khajamalai Campus, Tiruchirappalli, Email: mahapandian@hotmail.com) : Soil erosion vulnerability mapping using remote sensing based MMF rule in parts of Coimbatore and Tiruppur districts - Tamil Nadu, India. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 61-73.

Study is carried out in a mixed terrain of structural and fluvial terrain where it is tend to make a detailed analysis of soil erosivity rate on both the terrains and the impacts of climatic rainfall conditions over soil erosion on both the terrain features. More over some parameters like crop factors, Soil water storage and interception rate are estimated or replaced with new forms of equations for the sake on limited access of data. In this study, IRS LISS III P6 data was used to identify the erosion status and lithological weathering status in some parts of Coimbatore and Tiruppur districts. For the convenient usage and limited access of data for the terrain many updated formulas and international guidelines are adopted to imply in using the MMF model. Although in the original MMF model it is considered that estimation of water phase do not have influence of terrain parameters , while here in this study it is considered that both Water and Sediment phase have influences of terrain parameters like slope , steepness length etc. The base line studies were delineated from SOI Toposheet at 1:50,000 scale. Results provided by running a soil erosion model shows that, rainfed agriculture is contributing. Maximum soil losses, 32.5 t/ha/yr. The lower soil losses are recorded (0 - 0.2 t/ha/yr), and Highest (0.2 - 16 t/ha/yr),. Average estimated annual soil loss of the study area is16 t/ha. The resultant values are evaluated through field check and thus the lithological weathering status is identified on the basis of several parameters like top soil thickness, interception rate, erosivity rate, landuse pattern, drainage density, geomorphological unit and mainly on the basis of lithological unit available in the study area.

5 illus, 6 tables, 26 ref

004248   Palaniyandi M (Remote Sensing and GIS Laboratory, Vector Control Research Centre, (IC, , Indira Nagar, Pondicherry-605 006, Email: smp.geog@gmail.com) : Need for GIS based dengue surveillance with Google internet real time mapping for epidemic control in India. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 132-45.

Present effort is made for studying the essential of GIS based surveillance tool for dengue epidemic control in India. The dengue epidemic cases and the mortality caused by dengue has becomes essentially public health important in India, and the situation has become worst since, 2006. Dengue cases were clinically confirmed with thousands of cases and hundreds of deaths annually. India has highest record of 37070 dengue cases and 227 deaths across the country during 2012. The report of dengue epidemics is becomes daily news now days and it was reported from 24 states and Union Territories in India during 2012. The dengue epidemics were reported across the country during the period of April to November annually, however, the vulnerability of epidemics was reported between the periods of mid July to mid November of every year, since 2006. The environmental and climate variables are fuelling to creating conducing environment for profusion of dengue vector mosquitoes Aedes species (Ae. aegypti or Ae. Albopictus). The information relevant to the geographical site specification of dengue vectors breeding habitats, vector abundance, vector density, etc., could be recorded using global positioning systems (GPS). This information could be mapped and overlay on the thematic layers of climate variables (Temperature, relative humidity, saturation deficiency and Rainfall) under the geographical information systems (GIS) software platform for spatial analysis (cluster analysis, nearest neighbourhood analysis, fussy analysis, probability of maximum and minimum likelihood analysis etc.,) for prediction of disease epidemics 7 days in advance. The Google based internet GIS may perhaps, used to mapping real time situation and updating the information with online data base connectivity (ODBC) in the GIS engine for providing the real time information relevant to the dengue epidemics, and hence, the appropriate precaution measures will be taken to control dengue epidemics in the country early in advance.

4 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

004247   Mundhe N N;Jaybhaye R G (Geography Dep, S. P. College, Pune, Email: mundhenitin8@gmail.com) : Impact of urbanization on land use/land covers change using Geo-spatial techniques. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 50-60.

Urbanization is the method of urban areas growth, which result in population growth, increase of built-up area, high density of population and it also psychological stage of urban way of life. Uncontrolled momentum of urbanization and land use/ land cover change raises many issues which might have both positive and negative impacts like unauthorized urban sprawl, loss of agricultural land, high land values and other related problems. The monitoring of urbanization is vital role of planner, management, governmental and non-governmental organizations for implementing policies to optimize the use of natural resources and accommodate development at the same time minimizing the impact on the environment. The present research work aims to analyzing the changes that occurred in land use /land cover (LU/LC) over a time span of last four decades using modern technology like remote sensing and Geographical Information System. The geographical extend of Pune city is 243.84 km^{ý. It consists of 14 administrative wards with the total population of 3.11 million (Census, 2011). The spatio-temporal study of land use /land cover is carried out for 4 decades 1973 to 2011 using remotely sensed data like Landsat MSS (1973), TM (1992), ETM+ (2001) and TM (2011). Utilizing hybrid classification method for interpretation and on-field validation, it has been found that the built-up area of Pune city increased 1973 to 2011 by 43.43 percent from 28.50 kmý to 155.99 kmý. Also, the areas under vegetation, water bodies, agriculture land and fallow land have been decreased.}

6 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

004246   Manglik A (NO, CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute, Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500007, Email: ajay@ngri.res.in ) : Thermo-mechanical structure of the Indian continental lithosphere. J Indian Geophys Union 2015, 19(3), 243-55.

Thermo-mechanical properties of the rocks constituting the lithosphere control the nature of lithospheric deformation at multi-scales. The oceanic lithosphere, being simple in terms of the crustal structure, composition, and the thermal structure, in general has a fairly well defined thermo-mechanical structure. Significant variations in the crustal thickness and composition, complex evolutionary history, and variations in the composition and viscosity of the mantle part of the lithosphere due to varying degree of depletion of incompatible elements lead to a very complex mechanical structure of the continental lithosphere. This paper presents a brief review of the modeling studies carried out to estimate the mechanica V thermo-mechanical properties and structure of the Indian continental lithosphere. A synthesis of the results obtained by various approaches reveals two major inferences and the discrepancies in the estimates of the mechanical strength of the Indian continental lithosphere. First inference is that the Indian shield can be broadly sub-divided into the northern and the southern segments based on the mechanical strength of the lithosphere, with the Central Indian Tectonic Zone forming the contact between the two segments. Second inference is that there are variations in the mechanical strength of the northern Indian shield along the strike of the Himalayan collision belt. The observations of the lowest surface heat flow in the Archaean western Dharwar craton implying the thickest lithosphere in this region and the low effective elastic thickness for the southern shield obtained by the admittance and coherence analyses present an exciting paradoxical scenario having implications for the tectonic deformation of the Indian continental lithosphere in response to the plate boundary forces. An integration of the new geophysical images of the Indian continental lithosphere and thermo-mechanical modeling can help in resolving the discrepancy.

6 iilus, 59 rf

004245   Majumdar D;Chetia B K (Applied Geology Dep, Dibrugarh University, Assam, Email: dimaj101@yahoo.co.in) : Source rock evaluation of petm generated disang shales occurring in parts of Arunachal Pradesh, NE India. J appl Geochem 2015, 17(1), 1-9.

The sedimentation of Disang Group in NE India about 55 Ma ago, bordering Myanmar merely coincides the global phenomena of Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM). The group is dominated by kerogen rich shales with minor volume of sandstones. It is regarded as a source, contributing hydrocarbons to the petroliferous Upper Assam basin of NE India. There is, however, no published work on the source rock characterization of Disangs, as it is constrained by the non availability of core samples till date. The Group has about 3000 m vertical extension and laterally a vast regional span with continuous occurrence along the IndoRange (IBR). The present tasks of source rock characterization of Disangs exposed in parts of Changlang, Khonsa and Longding of Arunachal Pradesh, NE India are primarily based on sedimentary structures, geochemical parameters, diagenetic status of associated sandstones and to a lesser extent on the rock eval parameters. The sedimentary profile is characterized by flysch type sediments deposited on an active continental margin representing distal shelf to tidal flat environment under conditions of relatively hot anoxic bottom water. The geochemical parameters viz., enrichment factor (EF), paleo-redox indices (PI) and the low negative cerium anomaly indicate an anoxic bottom water condition of the basin of sedimentation. The anoxic bottom water condition is also documented by the occasional presence and preservation of dispersed pyrite framboids in the constituent shales. The effect of lithification, diagenesis and consequent transformation of organic matter to hydrocarbon was assessed based on sandstone petrography and clay mineralogy. The results indicate that the sandstones attained phyllomorphic stage of diagenesis, an effective condition that led to the transformation of organic matter to hydrocarbon. The estimated rock-eval parameters are found less informative at this stage of source rock characterization as the TOC, T_max indicate immature to over maturity of organic matter present. Also, the hydrogen and oxygen indices of kerogen refer to the type III organic matter, suggesting a poor source rock quality. Even though, the evaluated organic geochemistry does not support much of the parameters of effective source rock, the geochemical parameters and sedimentary features offer a perfect state of affairs of source rock production.

7 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

004244   Mahamad S;Latha G;Chandrasekar V;Manikandan N (Geography Dep, Presidency College, Chennai-5, Email: vchandrasekar1989@gmail.com) : An asessment of ground water quality of post and pre monsoon in Dharapuram taluk, Tiruppur district 206 - 12: a GIS based approach. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(3), 492-8.

People's livelihood always depend on water. The demand for clean water has become an issue of great importance in the recent times. With increase in population and Industrial development the quality of the ground water has been depleted. This paper aims to analyze the quality of ground water in Dharapuram taluk of Tiruppur district, with respect to the selected parameters such as Calcium (Ca), Chloride (Cl), Sodium (Na), Magnesium (Mg), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and pH. Based on the secondary data collected, the spatial (Temporal changes from 2006 - 12, for Post and Pre Monsoon seasons, has been examined. By applying the GIS 'Raster Overlay' method, the quality of ground water has been analyzed, with reference to the water quality standards, put forth by BIS (Bureau of Indian Standard) 1991 and WHO (World Health Organization) 1994. The results found by the study of ground water quality helps to identify good and moderate zones of the region, before and after the monsoons.

24 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

004243   Mahajan A K;Chandra S;Sarma V S;Arora B R (School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Central University of Himachal, Dharamshala-176 207, Email: akmahajan@rediffmail.com) : Multichannel analysis of surface waves and high-resolution electrical resistivity tomography in detection of subsurface features in Northwest Himalaya. Curr Sci 2015, 108(12), 2230-9.

Geophysical studies using multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) and high-resolution electrical resistivity tomography (HERT) have been jointly carried out on an experimental basis in the field. The motive is to study shallow subsurface features (i.e. faults traces, cavities and palaeo-channels) in the foot-hill zone of Northwest Himalaya. These techniques have shown their potentiality in successfully identify-ing shallow (0-24m) fault traces and dissolution features/palaeo-channels. Depending on the sensitivity of the MASW and HERT techniques, geophysical signatures of the subsurface features were recorded and further resolved with the help of synthetic simulation. The synthetic simulation of 2D electrical response has been carried out over the initial model for subsurface fault traces as well as palaeo-channels. The initial model has been refined iteratively to bring the synthetic response close to the field response and hence the final refined model is considered to be the true representation of the subsurface.

9 illus, 36 ref

004242   Linta R;Kani S P (Ocean Engineering nd Naval Architecture Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur-721 302, Email: pkbhaskaran@naval.iitkgp.ernet.in) : Tidal analysis and prediction for the Gangra location, Hooghly estuary in the Bay of Bengal. Curr Sci 2015, 109(4), 745-58.

Hooghly estuary located in the head Bay of Ben-gal region is a part of the highly dynamicdeltaic environment. Tidal variations are pre-dominant in this estuary, and tides propagate considerable distance through a complex etwork of various riverine systems, inlets, bays and creeks having vital implications on water mass exchange, reworking of deltaic sediments and the mixing process. The Hooghly River houses two major ports of national importance, viz. Kolkata Dock System and Haldia Dock Complex. Tidal forcing is primarily semi-diurnal in nature and with the presence of complex riverine morphology, the tidal characteristics are substantially modified causing various tidal constituents of compound tides. The present tudy performs location-specific tidal analysis and prediction utilizing one-hourly tide data with SLPR2 harmonic tidal analysis tool for Gangra situated upstream of the Hooghly River. In a geomorphologic perspective, the water-level elevation at Gangra results from natural tidal flow, as well as refracted effects from cross-flow due to the presence of two natural island barriers, namely Sagar Island situated southward off Gangra and Nayachara in the east. The Hooghly channel comprises of complex bathymetric features and tidal analysis at Gangra reveals the presence of Msf (luni-solar synodic fortnightly) tidal constituent. Very few locations in India have reported on the existence of the Msf tides, and Gangra is one among them. This study also performs a comprehensive validation between the computed monthly tidal prediction from SLPR2 and measured water level at Gangra. The skill level of prediction exhibits a good match. This study also investigates the influence of atmospheric effects on sea-level pressure variations and the resultant water-level elevation from extreme weather events such as depressions and severe cyclonic storms that occurred during 2013. The study signifies the importance of tidal analysis and prediction for operational needs.

6 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

004241   Latha A;Nagendra Babu G;Nayak S;Shiv Kumar K (Atomic Minerals irectorate for Exploration and Research, , Begumpet, Hyderabad, Email: alatha.amd@gov.in) : Petrography and geochemistry of granites with reference to their potentiallly for RMRE mineralisation, dirsavancha-Kammavaripalle, Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh. J appl Geochem 2015, 17(1), 32-40.

Proximal to the eastern margin of the Cuddapah Basin, number of granite bodies of Meso-Proterozoic age occur intermittently over a stretch of about 300 km from Vinukonda in the north to Sri Kalahasthi in the south. The granitic plutons of Dirsavancha-Kammavaripalle located NW of Kanigiri are petrographically characterised as alkali feldspar granite with accessory biotite, sphene, zircon, apatite, allanite and fluorite. Magnetite, ilmenite, galena, rutile, hematite, pyrite, molybdinite, goethite, limonite and gold are the opaque minerals observed. Radioactivity is attributed to V-bearing columbite-tantalite and labile uranium. The granites are per alkaline to meta aluminous, within-plate granites with high content of REE and the chondrite normalised pattern shows negative europium anomaly. The incompatible element enriched granite with the presence of elements like Nb, Ta, Zr, V Th and high Rb, LREE indicates low degree partial melting of rocks from lower to middle crustal depths. The enrichment of Large Ion Lithopile Elements indicates fertile nature of these granites and are potential hosts of RMRE minerals.

10 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

004240   Krishnaiah C (Central Water and Power Research Station, , Khadakwasla, Pune-411 024, Email: krishnaiahc@yahoo.com) : Establishing hydrogeophysical relationship between geoelectric and hydraulic parameters for a basaltic aquifer, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, India. J Indian Geophys Union 2015, 19(3), 282-9.

Quantitative assessment of the spatial distribution of intensity of groundwater pollution caused by untreated industrial effluents requires development of numerical transport models which in turn needs information on the spatial distribution of hydraulic characteristics of the subsurface. The most effective way to evaluate such aquifer characteristics is by performing the pump-out tests. However, sparse location of boreholes posed problems in modeling the subsurface pollution at Mula sugar factory area, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, India. A well established site specific relationship between geoelectric and hydrogeological parameters of the aquifer was adopted as an alternative approach to assess the hydraulic characteristics of the subsurface layers. The geoelectrical parameters were determined from the Vertical Electrical Soundings (YES) data carried out at pump-out test wells. The values of hydraulic conductivity (K) and transmissivity (T) computed from the pump-out tests were correlated with the normalized aquifer resistivity (p') and normalized transverse resistance (Z') respectively which suggested a linear relationship.

4 illus, 4 tables, 29 ref

004239   Imchen W;Patil S K;Rino V;Thong G T;Pongen T; Rao B V (Geological Survey of India, , Northeastern Region, Agartala-799 006, Email: glen2t03@yahoo.com) : Geochemistry, petrography and rock magnetism of the Basalts of Phek district, Nagaland. Curr Sci 2015, 108(12), 2240-9.

Basalts occur as sub-alkaline tholeiites in the Naga ophiolite belt. They bear an E-MORB affinity ascribed to aqueous fluid addition from a dehydrating oceanic crust in a supra-subduction zone during the Indo-Burma plate collision. They are commonly altered to spilite. They exhibit relatively poor REE fractionation with almost flat chondrite-normalized patterns. Eu-anomalies are not prominent, indicating the negligible role of plagioclase fractionation in their petrogenesis. Rock magnetic studies suggest that magnetite is the major magnetic mineral in these Upper Cretaceous basalts.

7 illus, 3 tables, 52 ref

004238   Hazarika N;Das A K (School of Sciences, Environmental Science Dep, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784 028, Assam, Email: apurba@tezu.ernet.in) : Process dynamics and controls in two partially-confined rivers of upper Brahmaputra plain. Indian J Res Rep med Sci 2014, 4(3), 91-103.

This work quantifies channel processes in two partially-confined rivers of Upper Brahmaputra plain, namely, Gai and Simen and explores their controls. To achieve the objectives this study utilises RS-GIS, rainfall data, seismic data and field observations. Gai migrated back and forth within an extent of 5 km depicting a swinging migration pattern throughout the study period. Simen in its downstream reaches migrated eastward continuously during the study period resulting in river shortening and change in confluence point with Brahmaputra. A reversal in the rate of erosion and deposition is observed in the recent decades with deposition being more dominant. We analyse rainfall regime, seismicity and anthropogenic intervention to examine the dynamic basis of observed changes. Rainfall regime which is a major control of surface runoff did not show any significant change in the total and seasonal amount. Seismicity, another influential stimulus of geomorphic changes shows an overall increase. Complete evaluation of seismicity as a control of sediment dynamics requires detailed measurements across a range of timescales for which the technology and data is missing in this region making it difficult to specify the role of seismicity. Further, increase in seismicity is a global trend which is generally attributed to enhanced capacity of detection. The nature and spatial distribution of the observed geomorphic changes clearly indicates dominance of anthropogenic control in the observed process dynamics of these partially-confined rivers. The present work provides a systematic documentation of geomorphic controls from a data scarce region.

8 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

004237   Gupta N;Bhaskaran P K;Dash M K (Ocean Engineering and Naval Architecture Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur-721 302) : Recent trends in wind-wave climate for the Indian Ocean. Curr Sci 2015, 108(12), 2191-2201.

Surface gravity waves play an important role in ocean engineering studies and their influence on the dynamics of the coastal zone is critical. Proper knowledge on wind-wave climatology is an area of immense interest to engineers and climate modellers. Climate change has influenced weather patterns over global oceans and at present is a matter of serious concern, as it can have long-term repercussions. There is a need to understand the recent trends in variability of wind-waves for planning operations. To improve climate projections the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report highlights the need and importance for wind-wave climate study. With this motivation, we study the variability of recent trends in maximum wind speed (MWS) and maximum significant wave height (MSWH) exclusively based on altimeter data for the Indian Ocean basin. We use daily data of MWS and MSWH from eight satellite missions covering a period of 21 years (1992-2012). The indings indicate that regions in the Southern Ocean (between 45°S and 55°S) experienced the largest variability in wind-wave climate. Higher MSWH resulting from increased MWS has practical implications on swell generation field that eventually cross the hemisphere influencing wind-waves elsewhere. The study also reveals the impact of wind-wave activity for the Indian Ocean basin in the pastdecade.

8 illus, 4 tables, 32 ref

004236   Ghosh D;Saha S (Geography and Applied Dep, , NBU, Email: wetlanddeb@gmail.com) : Channel bed aggradation in relation to channel Morphometry: A case study of river Jainti, Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 192-208.

Channel behaviour is so dynamic in areas of foothills where it debouches over the sudden slope change but being carried with its huge quantity of load. Such loads may be of both weathered and fluviatile in character so far process is concerned. Morphology of a channel is shaped up by the aggradational mechanisms in the channel. It may be caused by the soil characters as exemplified in the present study area which is abundant of calcites and limestone-dolomitic compositions and which result into seepage of surface flows and outcome of ephemeral channels at times especially during wet seasons. Haphazard in-channel dumping resembling corrugated surface topography is accentuated by the falling of gravity propelled slides and incompetency of the channels to carry the burden downstream. In the present study reasoning behind such bed filling occurrences in relation to its morphometry has been carried out with geomorphological perspectives.

14 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

004235   Ganguli S S;Lashin A A;Arifi N S A;Dimri V P (CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute, NGRI, , Hyderabad-500 007) : Design of gravity energy filter to enhance signal-to-noise ratio of gravity measurements. J Indian Geophys Union 2015, 19(3), 333-8.

One of the significant objectives of geophysical data recording and processing is the enhancement of the signal-to-noise ratio, and in this perspective, the design of an optimum digital filter is pivotal. The well-known Wiener-Hopf filter has been successfully applied to attain this objective. In comparison, the output energy filter is a tool, by which one can attempt to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio by retrieving the signal at the output, producing a longer burst of energy in the time interval where the signal occurs. In the present work, we report the development of a digital filter, namely, gravity energy filter for the improvement of gravity signal-to-noise ratio, immersed in coloured noise. For the design of such filter, it is not obligatory to have explicit knowledge of the gravity signal shape; nevertheless, its performance level is not compromised. We demonstrated its applicability on synthetic data, generated by considering two spherical bodies at the subsurface, were in the gravity signal buried in coloured noise beyond visual recognition, is easily detected after filtering.

4 illus, 19 ref

004234   Ganapathy G P;Rajawat A S (NO, , ) : Quantification of geologic hazard and vulnerability for Chennai city, India. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 32-42.

Quantification of geologic hazard and vulnerability is an important tool for planners and decision makers, when planning for a future potential earthquake particularly in major cities. Chennai city is one of the well urbanized and densely populated areas of India, where the majority of buildings are reinforced concrete cement structures containing three to four stories. The metropolitan city like Chennai would require more attention when planning for such earthquake scenarios. The present paper aims to study and understand the seismic hazard and vulnerability of the Chennai city's built environment and infrastructure facilities due to earthquakes. The seismic hazard of the city is assessed by integrating geological and geotechnical parameters in GIS platform. A pilot seismic vulnerability study is carried out in the densely populated built areas of the city. A first level rapid visual screening study of buildings is carried out for part of the city. The vulnerability on infrastructure viz., road, railway line, bridges, underground pipelines are mapped using GIS techniques. The seismic vulnerability of part of the city is quantified by integrating the seismic hazard over the built environment and infrastructure details. The outcome of study will be helpful in earthquake preparedness as well as during the emergencies in focusing and prioritizing rescue and relief operations.

4 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

004233   Faisal B M R;R K Majumder;Uddin M J;Halim M A (Environmental Sciences Dep, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka-1342, Bangladesh, Email: ratankm@yhoo.com) : Heavy metals in industrial effluent, river and groundwater of Savar industrial area, Bangladesh by principal component analysis. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 182-91.

Total number of twenty water samples of which seven groundwater, six river water and seven effluent samples were collected from Savar industrial area in Bangladesh for heavy metals analysis using ICP-MS system. The average concentration of Fe, Mn, Cr, Zn, As, Ni and Pb were 929.97, 101.01, 6.08, 33.36, 9.18, 2.03 and 3.99 mg/L in groundwater; 286.48, 37.65, 0.13, 9.18, 1.39, 1.53 and 1.26 mg/L in river water and 606.64, 72.71, 5.04, 25.05, 1.72, 2.37 and 1.56 mg/L in effluent, respectively. The average concentration of Cr, Mn, Ni, Fe, Pb, Zn and As exceed WHO and DoE, Bangladesh limits in relation to river water and groundwater. The order of average heavy metal content was Fe<62>Mn<62>Zn<62>Cr<62>Ni<62>As<62>Pb in effluent water, Fe<62>Mn<62>Zn<62>Cr<62>Pb<62>Ni<62>As in groundwater and Fe<62>Mn<62>Zn<62>Ni<62>As<62>Pb<62>Cr in river water. Multivariate statistical analyses such as principal component, cluster analysis and correlation matrix shows significant anthropogenic and geogenic intrusions of Fe, Mn, Cr, Zn, As, Ni, and Pb in river and groundwater in the study area. Significant positive correlation between Cr vs Zn, Cr vs As, Mn vs Fe, Mn vs As, and Zn vs Pb indicates their common origin, especially from industrial effluents and municipal wastes that are responsible for the enrichment of these variables as moving together in river water. On the other hand, strong positive correlation between Cr vs As and Ni vs Pb in groundwater reveal the anthropogenic sources of these variables. The high concentration of heavy metals in groundwater and river water may cause serious threat to public health as well as the aquatic environment.

3 illus, 5 tables, 12 ref

004232   Das P;Dutta S;Mondal S K (Mathematics Dep, Ramananda College, Bishnupur, Bankura-722 122, Email: pdas.math1986@gmail.com) : Quasi-numerical solution for 3-D meso-scale lee wae associated with meso-scale baroclinic dry mean flow across the Assam-Burma hills in India. J Indian Geophys Union 2015, 19(3), 290-300.

In this study an attempt has been made to obtain a 3-D meso-scale lee wave solution associated with a meso-scale flow across the Assam-Burma hills (ABH), following a quasi-numerical approach. To obtain the solution a laminar, BousisnesCL non-rotational 3-D mean flow with realistic vertical variation of wind and temperature across the ABH have been considered, where both buoyancy frequency(N) and basic flow(U) in the wind are realistically variant with height. ABH has been approximated by two 3-D elliptical barriers, separated by a valley of some finite width and is broadly north-south (NS) oriented. For more simplicity, the basic flow has been assumed to have only one component normal to the major ridges of the barriers. Two cases have been discussed. In every case, we have computed perturbation vertical velocities (w') (wave part) in the central plane at different heights, at different downstream locations. Vertical variation of w'at different downstream locations shows cellular structure. It is also found that the maximum updraft regions associated with lee waves are approximately 'horseshoe shaped', concave to down wind direction and spread laterally with vertical.

16 illus, 23 ref

004231   Das M (Geography Dep, , Visva Bharati, Santiniketan, West Bengal-731 235, Email: mrisgeovb@gmail.com) : Deformation of the Jambudwip Island of Sundarban Region, Eastern India. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(1), 9-18.

Jambudwip Island is well known for its drastic change of shape and the eviction of homelands of the transient folk-fishermen involved in the fishing activities in this island since 1955. Due to various natural causes the shape of this island is deforming and the total land area is reducing at the rate of 1.32 % per annum. Spatio-temporal changing pattern of this island since 1973 has been framed on the basis of LANDSAT images and the GIS technology. A comprehensive study has been done on the effective climatic parameter like sea water temperature, frequency of cyclone, rainfall amount, sea level change, etc. as their natural causes. Eviction of fishing community by the government is becoming a major social issue for such excessive land erosion so controversy has arisen on the natural and the social causes of this Island's deformation.

7 illus, 5 tables, 14 ref

004230   Das A;Bandopadhyay D K;Jee P K;Chowdhury I R (Central Chemical Laboratory, Geological Survey of India, 15 A and B Kyd Street, Kolkata-700016, Email: gsichem@rediffmail.com) : Hydrogeochemistry of groundwater in Chandanpur area of Odisha, India. Int J Geomatics Geosci 2014, 5(3), 448-58.

A preliminary groundwater assessment was done in Chandanpur, located in the coastal district of Puri, Odisha, India. A hydrogeochemical investigation was attempted to find the dominant processes in influencing the groundwater quality. Stoichiometric ratios among the dissolved ions were calculated and correlation and trend line diagrams depicting the linear relationships among the various water constituents were ascertained. Linear relationships between TDS and Cl^{- as well between TDS and Na+ were seen. Hydrochemical facies of the groundwater using Piper Hill diagrams were investigated to determine the water type. Assessment of groundwater suitability for irrigation and drinking purposes based on parameters like sodium adsorption ration(SAR),residual sodium carbonate (RSC), permeability index (PI) were also determined. This preliminary study indicates that the groundwater in Chandanpur is fairly suitable for irrigation and drinking purposes.}

4 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref