018532   Saha S K (NO, Chandernagore Banga Vidyalaya, Chandernagore, Hooghly) : Temporal analysis of some hydrological aspects of Subarnarekha basin. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2014, 37(2), 125-32.

The Subamarekha is one of the longest east flowing inter-state rivers. The basin is generally influenced by South-West monsoon, which breaks in the month of June and extends up to October. Some hydrological variables like discharge, sedimentation & water quality are always playing a crucial role to determine the equilibrium of a basin area. Here in this article hydrological data of aforesaid variables are taken so as to analyze the trends of those in the given basin.

8 illus, 10 tables, 8 ref

018531   Saha S (NO, , Visva-Bharati, Santiniketan, West Bengal, Email: sunilsaha.bolpur@gmail.com) : Allocation of morphometric parameters and its impact on settlement distribution study of Kunur river basin, Rarh Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2014, 37(2), 108-14.

The morphometry of a drainage basin determine the structural and functional morphology of settlement. In this present paper the impact of morphometric parameters on settlement has been analyzed. Some remarkable morphometric parameters like relative relief, dissection index, ruggedness index, stream frequency and slope negatively influence the settlement frequency, settlement density and settlement texture at 99% confidence level. Drainage density, length of overland flow etc. also influence the settlement but the relationship is only significant at 95% confidence level. Out of all the significant parameters maximum relief and minimum relief strongly determine settlement pattern. Functional settlement morphology is highly diversified in the upper catchment of the basin due to unfavourable morphometric condition and on the other hand due to favourable morphometric condition monotonous agriculture activity is found in the lower catchment area.

5 illus, 7 tables, 4 ref

018530   Mukhopadhay S C (Geography Dep, C.U., UGC) : Aspects of hydro-morphology of North Bengal drainage, India and surroundings with emphasis of the torsa basin. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2014, 37(2), 163-76.

The author has made an attempt to study the rivers and river basins with both of erosional and depositional landforms alongwith some hints of the sedimentation in rivers of the major, e.g. the Tista, The Jaldhaka, Mahnanda, Torsa etc. rivers. About all the rivers in North Bengal and other parts of Eastern and North-Eastem India arise from the glaciers and snow fields mainly outside of North Bengal area forming pan of the Himalayan drainage system. The Torsa river for example, originates from the Eastern Himalaya to the North of Bhutan and in its long journey southwards it covers higher degrees of slopes and dense-thickerdense forest areas. The river Torsa becomes very powerful like the others during South West Monsoon periods (June to September). The climate which determines the hydro-geomorphic processes found to be responsible in the fluctuation of the levels of water in all the rivers specially the Torsa itself at Ghugumari and Hasimara etc. points downwards. The given figures, tables, alongwith other illustrations depict the changing nature of the Torsa, for example and other rivers of North Bengal and surrounding areas e.g. The Kosi (The Ganga drainage basin), Tista, Sankosh - The Brahmaputra system. In an applied sense, these rivers negotiating the Himalaya with the higher, intermediate portions and lower, plains with different land uses and land capabilities - can be utilised for hydroelectricity generation, irrigation, industrial- drinking purposes and the like fruitfully in a more organised and scientific ways.

9 illus, 3 tables, 4 ref

018529   Majumdar S;Das N (Geography and Disaster Management Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 022, Email: simageo86@gmail.com) : Bank erosion risk: a study on the Khowai river, Tripura. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2014, 37(2), 83-91.

Khowai, the second longest river of Tripura, is suffering from severe bank erosion and resultant shifting. Out of 78 km length in its lower reach, 27.22 km stretch has been represented in this paper, within which three sites, namely, Chakmaghat, Karilong and Moharcherra, have been identified as vulnerable to bank erosion through overlay of temporal datasets. The maximum rate of shifting is 10.84 m/year. This study aims to analyse the temporal change of the bank line of the Khowai River and to calculate the Bank Erosion Hazard Index (BEH1) of these vulnerable sites. Overlay of four temporal datasets (SOI topographical sheets No. 79M/9 of 1932-33 and 1974-75, LISS III satellite image of 1989 and 2006) shows the positional change of the Khowai River during the period 1932 to 2006. Then for estimating BEHl, field survey has been carried out for ranking of erosion risk The variables selected for BEHI are bank height ratio, root depth ratio, bank angle, bank materials, weighted root density, surface protection etc. The study indicates that three sites are suffering from moderate to very high risk of bank erosion.

5 illus, 21 ref

018528   Majumdar D;Dutta P (Applied Geology Dep, Dibrugarh Univ, Dibrugarh-786 004, Email: dimaj101@yahoo.co.in) : Rare earth element abundances in some A-type pan-african granitoids of Karbi hills, North East India. Curr Sci 2014, 107(12), 2023-9.

This is a preliminary report of the rare earth metal abundances in certain Pan-African granitoids of Karbi Hills, Assam, North East India. Higher abundance of rare earth metals is apparently related to the mineralogical abundance of certain key rare earth element (REE)-bearing accessory minerals like allanite, xenotime, bastnaesite, apatite, zircon and monazite. The bulk chemistry of the granitoids suggests their A-type, calcium-deficient but alkali-rich, anomalous, anorogenic, within-plate granitoid character. Textural variants considered for the present study are: (1) porphyritic to sub-porphyritic, medium to fine-grained, mylonitized grey and pink-coloured granitoids of the Panbari-Geleki area in northern Karbi Hills, and (2) the non-porphyritic, medium to fine-grained granitoids of Kathalguri area in northwestern Karbi Hills. Compositionally, the plutons are granitic to granodioritic in composition. The study reveals that the grey porphyritic granitoids are poor in REE, but the pink porphyry/sub-porphyry variety is enriched in REE. The pink granitoids show richness in La (average 1086 ppm) and Ce (average 2329 ppm) in particular. The average LREE content in the nonporphyritic Kathalguri granitoids is 607.46 ppm, but their HREE content is slightly higher (average 26.50 ppm) than normal granitoids. Chondrite normalized LREE-HREE profile and ratios of Ce_N/Yb_N, La_N/Yb_N, La_N/Sm_N and Tb_N/Yb_N of in dividual plutons indicate co-magmatic derivation of magmatic masses from the lower crust.

8 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

018527   Kolchugin A N;Morozov V P;Korolev E A;Eskin A A (Institute of Geology and Petroleum Technologies, Kazan Federal Univ, Russian Federation, Tatarstan Republic, Email: anton.kolchugin@gmail.com) : Carbonate formation of the lower carboniferous in central part of volga-ural basin. Curr Sci 2014, 107(12), 2029-35.

Carbonate rocks of the Lower Carboniferous (Tournaisian stage) of the central Volga-Ural basin (the eastern portion of the East European platform) are of practical scientific interest to geologists, particularly because they contain large reserves of oil. Although such layers have been studied, various questions pertaining to development of sedimentation schemes for the rocks have not been answered. We have attempted to resolve these by studying a wealth of drill core materials. The study involved structural and genetic analysis of rocks and facies reconstructions. The rocks are mainly represented by different types of shallowwater limestone. The thickness of coeval layers and their lithological structures changes from well to well within an oilfield, primarily due to the different environments of sedimentation during the Tournaisian stage. Therefore, to identify the characteristics of carbonate sedimentation, we have studied the sequences of different types of limestone and analysed their thickness. As a result, we have developed principle schemes of sedimentation for shallow-water carbonate rocks of the Tournaisian stage. This may help in the predictive search for reservoir rocks in the region of study.

8 illus, 26 ref

018526   Khatun S;Debnath G C (Geography Dep, Visva Bharati, Santiniketan, West Bengal, Email: sahin.geo@gmail.com) : Land capability assessment for wasteland development planning in Birbhum district, West Bengal. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2014, 37(2), 92-100.

This paper intended to assess the land capability classes for formulating plan for wasteland development in Birbhum District. Land of the district has been grouped into six capability classes regarding different environmental parameters and classes are designed in accordance with progressive increase of degree of limitations. Based on these classes, capability of different wastelands is extracted. Wastelands associated with inherently poor environmental status reveal higher constraints and high risk of severity and reclamation of these wastelands is a matter of great difficulty and required high level of technology and higher cost. These classes are mainly concentrated in western and south-western part of the district and some extremely severe pockets confined in Rajnagar and Md. Bazar blocks. On the other hand, wastelands with limited natural constraints unveil low severity and can be reclaimed easily with low level of effort and cost. These classes are mainly situated in flat plain of north-eastern part of the district.

7 illus, 2 tables, 1 ref

018525   Gui J;Zhang C;Zhang Y;Zhang L;Qi J;Li X;Tai L;Zhao G (NO, Institute of Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology, CAGS, Zhengding 050803, P.R. China, Email: agui_mail@163.com) : One-step extraction and sensitive measurement of polar and non-polar pollutants simultaneously in soil using modified ultrasonic technology with in situ derivatization. Asian J Chem 2014, 26(9), 2624-8.

A simple low-cost ultrasonic extraction procedure has been developed for determination of polar aromatic acids, polar phenols and nonpolar pesticides simultaneously in soil. This procedure was accomplished by in situ derivatization as well as elevated temperature, increased power and dispersing intimate contact of solvent with samples. Combined with GC/NCI/MS method, the sensitivity was improved remarkably because of the enhanced electronegativity of derivatized products of herbicide and phenols as well as the intrinsic electronegativity of organochlorine. The method presented here showed that the modified ultrasonic extraction method can be a robust preparation methodology for both polar and nonpolar organic contaminants which can be applied to solid sample pre-treatment extensively.

5 tables, 16 ref

018524   Datta T;Bajaj M M;Deepak Kumar;Singh S (Physics Dep, Ramjas College, Delhi Univ, Delhi, Email: tuhindutta38@gmail.com) : Perelman's formula and Thurston's picture for the chaotic universe in the complex hyperbolic BIS manifold: origin of earth quake, sea quake and solar quake. Invertis J Sci Technol 2014, 8(1), 20-31.

Several severe catastrophes often occur in our universe. Out of these some ore observed (like earthquake, tsunami etc) and tolerated by us. Few are unobserved but their consequences are noteworthy (like solarquake or magnetohelioseismic activities etc.). Its our effort in this paper to frame out the topology of these catastrophes with the help of Pere/mon's, Thurston's and Ricci's work. In this paper we report on remarkable recent work of Grisha Perelman, which have solved the classification problem for 3 manifolds. Due to intense BIS processes the topology of the universe changes yielding devastating consequences. We will try to depict Thurston picture of 3-manifolds when the objects of the universe become chaotic. The Ricci flow equations will be introduced to analyze the geometrization of BIS manifold and to study the behavior of the chaotic catastrophes.

11 ref

018523   Chattopadhyay A (NO, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong, Meghalaya) : Importance of a landform changes over time: a case study of Kanthi-Paniparul dune belt of Purba Medinipur, W.B.. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2014, 37(2), 115-18.

The Paper deals with importance of a landform changes over time: A case study of Kanthi-Paniparul dune belt of Purba Medinipur, West Bengal. This author has made some observations on landform and land use modifications including the recent human interference and their impacts in the study area of Purba Medinipur dune belts.

2 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

018522   Bhattacharjee D (Geography Dep, F.C. College, Diamond Harbour, South 24 Parganas) : Evolution of valleys and water falls of upper Bhagirathi basin, Uttarakhand. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2014, 37(2), 177-9.

Bhagirathi valley presents a well-developed watershed in which snow, glaciers, running water and mass gravity movements are the important factors in sculpturing surface geometry. Bhagirathi valley presents a well-developed watershed in which snow, glaciers, running water and mass gravity movements are the important factors in sculpturing surface geometry. Fluvial landforms are landforms shaped dominantly by the action of running water and the running water is the most widespread exogenetic process on this planet earth. The stream network especially the master stream (Bhagirathi River) of these zones is engaged in vertical cutting and lateral widening of the Bhagirathi Valleys. The fluvial landforms are divided into two major groups: 1) Erosional Landforms 2) Depositional Landforms.

2 tables, 5 ref

018521   Bandyopadhyay S;Sinha S;Jana N C;Ghosh D (Geography Dep, The Univ of Burdwan, Golapbag, Burdwan-713 104, Email: sujaybandyopadhyayest@gmail.com) : Entropy application to evaluate the stability of landscape in Kunur river basin, West Bengal, India. Curr Sci 2014, 107(11), 1842-53.

River network analysis using thermodynamic entropy approach has been studied over the past several decades to decipher the behaviour of streams and landscape stability. The entropy-based study has been taken up in Kunur River Basin of eastern India to verify the level of adjustment for its present longitudinal profile to the calculated and equilibrium longitudinal profiles adopting Yang's (1971) theory of average river fall. The verification reveals that the fall ratio is less than 1, which indicates the basin has not yet reached the dynamic equilibrium phase and the whole process-response system sustains tremendous human pressure. It is inferred from the thermodynamic river profiles that there is poor agreement between observed data and the law of average stream fall, and the concave river profile emerging from several scales of process-form interaction is characterized by human interference. The present analyses also demonstrate that the lithological control, grain size and channel morphology influence the gradient in short term and climate-induced hydrological changes control the long-term stability of the total landscape.

8 illus, 2 tables, 43 ref

018520   Bahinipati C S (NO, Gujarat Institute of Development Research, Ahmedabad-380 060, Email: chandrasekharbahinipati@gmail.com) : Assessment of vulnerability to cyclones and floods in Odisha, India: a district-level analysis. Curr Sci 2014, 107(12), 1997-1007.

Most of the districts in Odisha, India are prone to both cyclones and floods. However, the existing studies have assessed vulnerability mainly for the coastal districts, and are largely focused on the biophysical components. Therefore, a comprehensive vulnerability assessment will help unravel the scale of vulnerability across the districts of Odisha, and provide a better understanding of the adaptive capacity of households towards these extreme events. An 'integrated approach' was adopted to assess vulnerability which is viewed as a function of exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity. A number of proxy indicators were considered to represent these components, and a normalization procedure was adopted in order to aggregate them into a single value. Three key observations emerged. First, components like sensitivity and adaptive capacity were found to act as the major determinants of vulnerability. Secondly, eight districts were found to have a higher vulnerability score, and surprisingly, some of the districts are non-coastal. Thirdly, factors like demography, agriculture and economic capacity emerged as the major cause for increasing vulnerability. These results have policy implications in the context of prioritizing limited resources among the vulnerable districts and determinants through the disaster risk management programme at state and district levels.

4 illus, 8 tables, 59 ref

017545   Yuvaraj E;Dharanirajan K;Saravanan N G (Disaster Management Dep, Pondicherry University, Port Blair-744 112, Email: yuvaerd22@gmail.com) : Post-disaster assessment of impact of cyclone Lehar in South Andaman Island. Curr Sci 2015, 108(1), 85-90.

Disasters are the events which devastate human lives, properties and natural ecosystems; cyclones are frequent events in tropical countries which have adverse impacts on coastal areas. The present study evaluates the impact of cyclone Lehar post-disaster in the South Andaman Island using geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing techniques. Cyclone Leharoriginated in the Andaman Sea and had a major impact on the South Andaman Island. Digital elevation model was used to create elevation and slope maps of the study area. These maps were used to study the impacts of floods, landslides, storm surges and run-off. Land-use and land-cover features were mapped and overlaid with this model for preparing the vulnerability map for various outcomes of the cyclone. Preliminary impact assessments were made in these identified vulnerable areas and also throughout the study area. Finally the results were interpreted with vulnerability map prepared using the GIS technique which shows that most of the affected areas are correlated with the vulnerability map. Cyclone Lehar had adverse impacts on natural ecosystems such as forests, mangroves and sandy beaches. It also damaged man-made features such as settlements, infrastructure, agricultural fields and plantations. This study proves spatial technologies are the indispensible tools for post-disaster planning and impact assessment.

5 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

017544   Yu W;Shihe Y;Lin H;Zhi C;Yangzhu Z (National University of Defense Technology, , Changsha-410 073, Email: helin.101sys@gmail.com) : Experimental investigations of supersonic turbulent flow over a compression ramp. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 255-60.

Experimental studies of supersonic flow over a 28° compression ramp were carried out in a Mach 3.0 wind tunnel; the incoming boundary layer was turbulent flow. Fine flow structures were visualized via NPLS(nano-tracer-based planar laser scattering) technique. Analysis of two NPLS images between 10μs revealed the spatio-temporal evolutions of flow field. The angles of separation shock and reattachment shock, and the development of boundary layer after reattachment were measured by time-averaged flow field. Velocity field structures were measured using particle image velocimetry technique. Streamlines in the mean velocity field indicated reverse flow in separation region, and variations of velocity vectors showed velocity shear. Moreover, flow separation and reattachment were clearly revealed by the analysis of velocity field.

8 illus, 18 ref

017543   Vijaya Kumar K;Rathna K;Leelanandam C (School of Earth Sciences, SRTM University, Nanded-431 606, Email: vijay_kumar92@hotmail.com) : Proterozoic subduction-related and continental rift-zone mafic magmas from the Eastern Ghats Belt, SE India: geochemical characteristics and mantle sources. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 184-97.

Study portrays growth of the continental crust in the Proterozoic Eastern Ghats Belt, SE India. Mafic magmas within the Palaeoproterozoic Kondapalli -Kandra region illustrate subduction-related island arc basalt-type geochemical signatures whereas alkali basaltic magmas in the Mesoprotero-zoic Prakasam continental riftzone display ocean island basalt-type characteristics. Calculated mantle sources for subduction-zone and rift-related magmas display distinctly different geochemical traits. Meso-proterozoic gabbroic magmas in the Prakasam rift-zone exhibit geochemical signatures akin to the subduction-related mafic melts. This dichotomy of continental crust produced overestimated the proportion of conti-nental crust generated above subduction zones.

9 illus, 1 table, 111 ref

017542   Toshilila;Sarkar N K;Moirangcha L H;Balaji R (NO, Geological Survey of India, NER, Shillong) : Perspective slope stability assessment along Aizawl-variengte sector of NH 54, Mizoram, India. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 63-72.

Perspective slope stability assessment along selected stretches of National Highway corridor between Aizawl - Variengte, Mizoram, revealed that the slope mass at a number of locations may experience different degrees of slope instability of varying dimensions within the excavated slope in the event of any high anomalous monsoon discharge. Though major part of the road stretch during the pre-monsoon drier period was found to be self-supporting, yet, probability of slope failures at saturated condition at places may be anticipated due to general disposition of the litho-variants, intense weathering, occasional presence of sheared zones and presence of variably compacted older debris. Further, the variable nature and thickness of overburden, presence of seepage and flowing condition at places, identification of crown cracks of varying dimension and creep movement at places further emphasizes the presence of indicative revealing condition for future initiation of slope failures. The bedrock in the studied sector is found subjected to intense weathering and as a result at many stretches competent bedrock is not encountered at shallower level. Due to intense weathering and past slope failures the bedrock is found to be overlain by thin to thick (1-5 m) overburden material like that of older well compacted debris, insitu clay to silty soil (occasional sandy pockets at places), younger loose debris, scree and slope wash materials. Further due to earlier mass wasting the slope mass along the studied stretches exhibits large spatial and temporal variations in respect of slope morphometry. The dominant siltstone-sandstone sequence underwent folding and fracturing, which facilitated the weathering and reduction of rock mass strength (RQD estimated to be varying from 15 to 40). The rock mass at places is also found to be traversed by high angle shears which reduce the rock mass strength considerably (RQD values 10-30). The disposition of the bedding with respect to the natural and modified slope at many places indicated a condition favourable for planar failure in the bedrock and shallow translational failure in the thin overburden above the bed rock. Further because of the development of joints and fractures related to the folding and deformation at places, intersecting joints and bedding in the slope day-lighted and favoured a condition of wedge failure. The heavy monsoon discharge acted on the variable slope forming material flows along the slopes by way of surface drainage network, which changes at places due to sudden variation in the lithology and slope. Along with surface drainage network, the major part of the percolated water also moves along a variable sub-surface network which interacts with the slope and slope forming material in a complex and varied way. Further due to the higher porosity and reduced permeability of the weathered soil (dominantly fine grained silt to clay), local development of pore water pressure was observed at places. During the period of study (pre-monsoon dry period) a significant part of the slope proximal to the road bench exhibited flowing, wet and damp condition, especially in the overburden slope. These clearly indicate that sub-surface drainage network could be active for a longer period and can act on the slope forming material. One of the significant observations made during the study is the identification of loci of hydrostatic pressure behind the cut slope even during dry season and consequent bulging and fracturing of the slope. Further active removal of clay material by the surface run-off and deposition of the same at places indicated piping condition. These clearly reflect pre-condition of failures in the event of further anomalous rainfall and anthropogenic intervention. The perspective studies may help in overall assessment of the cut slope stability and identification of area of further studies for this important National Highway corridor.

16 illus, 2 ref

017541   Thanavelu C (NO, , Geological Survey of India, Email: actvelu@gmail.com) : Facet based landslide hazard zonation of Kodaikanal hills, Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 120-9.

Rapid development is taking place in Kodaikanal Township - the second important hill station in Tamil Nadu and the surrounding areas. Landslide occurrence is a frequent and recurring phenomenon in the hill ranges housing Kodaikanal. Landslide Hazard Zonation which is the primary step towards landslide hazard management and mitigation is pursued to evaluate hazard status. Landslide Hazard zonation of the area has been carried out adopting BIS Guidelines modified by GSI taking slope facet as the fundamental unit. Nine parameters have been evaluated to work out Total Estimated Hazard (TEHD) for the individual facets. During evaluation of the individual factors, the system proposed in the guideline is modified suitable to the study area considering the type of slides, causal planes, causative factors, etc. As, rain fall is the triggering factor, average annual rain fall is not considered.

1 illus, 3 tables

017540   Singh Y;Rathore D S (NO, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee-247 667) : Water in deserts and public participation. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika 2014, 22(2), 114-19.

Word deserts gives the expression about the places where we can find: sand, high temperature, dry atmosphere and shortage of water. But the situation is almost different. The above situations can be found at several places but there is a variety of deserts in the world. For example in the desert areas, sandy plain lands can be found on some places whereas at other places salty lakes are also found in abunden. Generally, a desert can be decided the several factors such as annual rainfall, rainy days, temperature, atmospheric moisture etc. In this context, the division made by Peveril Meigs of UNESCO (in 1953) is well accepted. He has divided the deserts of the world in three series. In the language of the common people a desert is the place where water is not available. Hence, it can be said that water is of utmost importance in the deserts. It is well known that on the one hand nature has made deserts more dry, while on the other hand the water sources are available in the deserts in different forms. Water Conservation and re-use of water, etc are also required in deserts.

1 illus, 5 ref

017539   Singh P;Yadava M G;Ahmad M Z;Mohapatra P P; Laskar A H;Doradla S;Saravanavel J;Kumanan C J (Earth Sciences Dep, School of Physical, Chemical and Applied Sciences, Pondicherry University, R.V. Nagar, Kalapet, Puducherry-605 014, Email: pramods@yahoo.com) : Fertile farmlands in Cauvery delta: evolution through LGM. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 218-25.

Cauvery delta encompasses legendary farmlands for at least over the last ~2300 years BP that had supported the growth of the famous Chola and Pandya kingdoms. The chrono-stratigraphic study from six sediment cores taken from the Cauvery basin indicates Holocene evolution of the present delta in response to the past sea-level changes. It is found that at the time of lower sea level during the Last Glacial Maximum, older sediments from the present delta plain, were removed and the extent of removal in different parts was observed to have been controlled by the variation in shelf morphology. Subsequent sea-level rise during the deglaciation after the Last Glacial Maximum, led to filling of the incised valleys with the younger sediments of the Holocene. Nilgiri-Kodaikanal-Palani-Biligirirangan hills granulites and Brahmagiri regions constitute the upper catchment. Geochemistry of the sediments indicates presence of plagioclase and dominance of 2:1 clay, suggesting weathering-limited provenance of southern granulite-type rocks, the source of which is perhaps the high relief and tectonically more active Nilgiri-Kodaikanal-Palani-Biligirirangan hills mountain region rather than the Brahmagiri region. A continuous deposition since the beginning of the Holocene has resulted in the formation of fertile farmlands in the Cauvery delta region.

8 illus, 31 ref

017538   Singh G D;Singh P K;Gupta K S (NO, , GSI, SU; Gujarat, Gandhinagar) : Preliminary investigation of Sasan Gir earthquake - 2011, Junagadh district, Gujarat. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 7-17.

Seismic activity in the Sasan Gir area is reported to be continuing for last 10 years and in the entire Saurashtra region for more than 200 years. The present seismic activity commenced with the occurrence of an earthquake of magnitude 5.3 on 20th October, 2011. Since then activity is continuing in the area with subsequent lower magnitude earthquakes. About 200 aftershocks have recorded and the magnitude of earthquakes is fluctuating between 1 & 2. Among 200 aftershocks 2-3 aftershocks are ranging from 3-4. Location of the epicenter of earthquake as per ISR differs from USGS. ISR has reported epicenter of the earthquake at 21.114° N; 70.54° E whereas the USGS has fixed at 21.18°N; 70.48°E. The depth of focus is also differently mentioned by ISR and USGS at 8.5 km and 15.5 km, respectively. Geologically the major part of the area is covered by the Deccan Volcanics. The volcanic rocks are overlain at places by miliolitic limestone. The rocks are covered by thin veneer of soil. Different sets of lineaments / dykes trending N-S, NNW-SSE, NW-SE, NE-SW and E-W is present in the area. The affected area is bounded by two major faults aligned in NW-SE direction and NNE-SSW direction in western and eastern margin of Saurashtra Region, respectively. Near epicenter mainly miliolitic limestone and alluviums are highly affected during the earthquake. Mostly single storey small houses are located in and around the Sasan Gir area without proper designing. Most affected villages in the area are Ladudi, Haripur, Sandhbeda Nes, Jepur, Dhravawad, Devgam, Jalandhar, Khatrasa, Chitravad and Hiranvel. At all these places some of the poorly constructed houses developed fractures in the walls, roofs and some of the supporting pillars were also dislocated. Nowhere ground surface rupture has been observed. On the basis of macro seismic survey, isoseismal map is prepared and meizoseismal area is demarcated. The meizoseismal area is of ellipsoidal in shape stretching about 17 km along a- axis and 1,3 km about b-axis. The a-axis is aligned in NE-SW direction. On the basis of field observation an isoseismal of Intensity VII is prepared and the epicenter is lying near Chitravad village.

4 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

017537   Shynu R;Purnachandra Rao V;Sarma V V S S; Kessarkar M;Mani Murali R (CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography Dep, , Dona Paula, Goa 403 004, Email: vprao@nio.org) : Sources and fate of organic matter in suspended and bottom sediments of the Mandovi and Zuari estuaries, western India. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 226-38.

Organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN) and stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic compositions were measured in suspended particulate matter (SPM) and surface sediment along estuaries of Mandovi and Zuari rivers, two small mountainous river systems in western India during wet and dry seasons, to characterize the sources of organic matter (OM) in these systems. Unlike major rivers, SPM concentrations increase sea-ward with a general trend of decreasing particulate organic carbon (POC) in these rivers, mostly due to the presence of estuarine turbidity maximum (ETM) located downstream of the estuaries. POC and particulate nitrogen (PN) were higher in the Mandovi than in the Zuari estuary. Except during wet season in the Mandovi, POC/PN and δ^{15N were altered by biogeo-chemical processes in both the estuaries and are not indicators of source organic matter. PN/POC and δ13Corg indicated the dominance of terrestrial plant-derived OM and terrestrial soil-derived OM respectively, in the Mandovi and Zuari estuaries during wet season. The δ13Corg versus salinity plot indicated increasing proportions of marine OM sea ward in both estuaries during dry season. OC and TN in the sediments of both estuaries were much lower than in the overlying suspended matter. The mean δ13Corg in the sediment and SPM were similar in both the seasons in Mandovi and only during wet season in Zuari estuary. Uniform mean values of δ13Corg in the lower estuary and bay of Zuari indicated efficient mixing of sediments during wet season. Sediments with relatively high δ13Corg and low δ15N in the upper estuary of Zuari were related to anthropogenic contamination by sewage effluents during dry season. It is estimated that each river contributed at least ~20% terrestrial organic carbon (TOC) to the coastal system during wet season and received similar quantity of TOC during dry season. Since there are more than 10,000 small rivers originating from monsoon-dominated and/or mountainous regions globally, it must be appreciated that their total TOC contribution to the coastal system must be substantial.}

4 illus, 67 ref

017536   Sharma V P;Pareek S (Engineering Geology Div, Geological Survey of India, WR, 15-16 Jhalana Doongri, Jaipur, Rajasthan, Email: vps2448@gmail.com) : Rare foundation media for masonry spillway at lhasi dam, Baran district, Rajasthan - a case study. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 18-23.

The geotechnical investigation of Lhasi medium irrigation project has brought to light peculiar foundation strata in the area mainly occupied by Vindhyan sediments and Deccan Trap. The peculiarity of strata led to number of modifications in the design of the spillway. The atypical geotechnical characteristics of the strata exposed at the foundation level was an enigma for the geologist as well as design engineers. The project area is mostly covered with alluvium having exposures of basaltic flows of Deccan traps on the right side of the dam underlain by sedimentary rocks of Vindhyan Super group and an intervening thick section of decomposed white sandstone. This intervening unit was identified prima facie as forming part of the Vindhyan sequence. After detailed studies, it was found to be an altogether different unit of argillaceous immature sandstone/lithic-wacke of volcanoclastic origin with stray pebble size clasts, which may represent a paleosol / infratrappeans. This unit having a thickness of more than 25 m and underlain by typical Vindhyan shale/sandstone sequence, is in fact a unit probably deposited prior to the onset of Deccan volcanism. The peculiar characteristic of this unit is its two components with altogether different geotechnical properties. The upper 15 m thick portion of the unit is soft and semi-consolidated followed by quite hard, compact and massive lower portion with sub-angular clasts of chert, jasper and other rocks fragments, a feature common to both portions of the unit. The upper portion of the unit has very poor cohesiveness, when water charged. As such the rock though has low permeability, is highly vulnerable to scouring due to high water absorption and non-cohesive matrix. The geotechnical attributes of this peculiar unit are such that any contact of this upper unit with the structure is undesirable. Slightest scouring along the contact with the structure may prove to be fatal in due course. 1 view of the unsuitability of this foundation media further deep drilling was opted and a good foundation media (the lower portion of the same unit) was intersected at 15 m depth from earlier proposed foundation level throughout the extent of the structure. The rock is quite massive with very good RQD % and high compressive strength. Subsequently, the structure was redesigned to conventional ogee type spillway leaving aside all other options with low confidence level.

3 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

017535   Sharma L N (Applied Sciences Dep, PEC- Univ of Technology, Sector-12, Chandigarh, Email: lnsharma.pec@gmail.com) : Use of geoinformatics in lineament studies for best site for hydro electric project-a case study from Sach Khas, Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, India. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 217-22.

Among other parameters geology and lineament pattern of an area plays most important role in deciding as to which is the best site for hydroelectric project. Satellite data clubbed with topographic sheets do provide detailed requisite information about these parameters. The paper deals with deriving geological and information about structural linear features to find out the possible impact of lineaments on the upcoming hydroelectric power project in the vicinity of the upper Himalayas a study was undertaken. The area falling in toposheet number 52 D/5 at 1:50,000 scale is between upstream Purthi and the downstream Duggar with the diversion located between across the river Chenab. The project envisages the construction of a 90 m high concrete gravity dam, about 1100 m upstream of the Cheni nala confluence with Chenab falling in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. To demarcate lineaments satellite data of LADSAT 7 ETM+, September 2000 were used. The study areas falls in the vicinity of the Great Himalayan Range and is characterized by rugged mountainous topography. The general trend of the rocks is NNE-SSW & NE SW. Deep steep rising hills with intervening dissected valleys are common. The rocks include Quartzites, phyllites, slates, schists and limestones of Batal and Mazri formations. The Chenab River flowing from south to north direction with dendritic to trellis type of drainage pattern. From the study it is concluded that geology and structural features pose no threat to the upcoming dam site.

3 illus, 11 ref

017534   Sarkar N K (NO, , Geological Survey of India, North Eastern Region, Shillong-793 003, Email: niroj4@gmail.com) : Extreme hydrological situation and debris flow initiation - consequences and concern. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 202-8.

The relation of extreme hydrological situation and debris flow initiation across the mountain slope of Himalaya, Trans-Himalaya and Western-Ghats were highlighted with recent examples. The significant negative consequences of this long travel short period fluidised mass movement on the people, infrastructure, land-use, forest, etc were highlighted to emphasized the need for debris flow susceptibility mapping. The various predisposing and triggering factors for debris flow initiation in the mountain slope are outlined along with a few revealing factors. Some of the prevalent methodologies used for debris flow susceptibility mapping and run out modelling being used globally are discussed highlighting the complexities and uncertainties associated the same. The need for multi-disciplinary/multi-institutional approach incorporating advance climatic input in regards to identification and delineation of the possible loci of extreme hydrological situations, identification and delineation of the slope morphometry and stream configurations, detailed event based inventory of the debris flow/mudflow and identification of the loci of the paleo debris flow/mud flow situations has been emphasised for preparation of debris flow susceptibility maps, hazard, risk assessment and mitigation of this significant natural hazard.

6 ref

017533   Reena Kumari;Sharma B;Singh R;SIngh R M; Tewari R K;Dhyani S K (Farm Engineering Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, BHU, Varanasi, Email: reenaisrani@gmail.com) : Morphometric and land use analysis of Parasai-Sindh watershed in semi-arid tropics of Central India. Envir Ecol 2015, 33(1), 28-32.

Morphometric analysis of a watershed provides a quantitative description of the drainage" system, which is an important aspect of the characterization of watershed. Land use is the surface utilization of all developed and vacant land on a specific point at a given time and space. Land use and basin characterization can be utilized for better management and conservation of natural resources. The watershed covers an area of 12.46 km^{2 and its main stream is found to be of 4th order. Majority of the area occupied by agriculture (88.7%) followed by scrubland. Relief of watershed varied from 270 to 315. The mean bifurcation ratio was 3.31. The values of form factor and circulatory ratio of watershed were 1.77 and 0.20, respectively. These indicated that the watershed is not circular in shape. Length of main channel. basin length and basin perimeter were found as 5.57, 6.21 and 27.83 km, respectively. The fineness ratio was 0.22. The lower drainage density of the watershed (2.16 km/km2) indicates coarse drainage pattern. Elongation ratio of 0.64 confirmed that the study area was having moderate relief and gentle ground slope. These values indicate that Parasai-Sindh watershed would produce delayed peak flow in turn it offers greater opportunity time for infiltration and groundwater recharge.}

2 tables, 14 ref

017532   Ray A K;Ghosh T (NO, , Geological Survey of India, Central Headquarter, 27-J.L. Nehru Road, Kolkata-700 162) : Soil geotechnics in urban planning-a case study from Kolkata megacity. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 209-16.

Detailed soil investigation in Chandannagar area of Kolkata Megacity project area was carried out for urban planning. Soil is characterized predominantly by fine grained texture. The SPT (N values) values obtained from the soil down to 10m have been found to vary from 4 to 12. This wide variation may be attributed to variation in composition and proportion of silt, sand and organic matter. Various geotechnical properties including Cohesion (C) and Angle of shearing (Φ) have been determined. Based on the united classification system on consistency limit the soil of the area can be classified into MI, MH, CH, ML, Cl and CL group. Bearing capacity as well as settlement for different types of loaded structure has been computed from the geotechnical parameters.

2 illus, 3 tables

017531   Rameshwar Rao D;Daga M (NO, Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, 33 General Mahadeo Singh Road, Dehradun-248 001, Email: raodr@wihg.res.in) : Felsic granites vis-…-vis leucosomes from the Shyok-Darbuk section of the Shyok Suture Zone, eastern Ladakh, India: a geochemical study. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 198-204.

Shyok-Darbuk section of eastern Ladakh forms a part of the Shyok Suture Zone, and is dominantly comprised of Early Eocene orthogneisses and mafic enclaves, and Miocene felsic granites and migmatites. The aim of the present study is to establish genetic linkage between leucosome of the migmatites from mixed zone and the felsic granite in the Darbuk region (DFG). It is observed that, partial melting, with or without segregation of initial melts, seems to be the main cause for the generation of felsic melts as represented by leucosomes and felsic granites. Leucosomes are considered as felsic partial melts that were retained in the partially molten zone (migmatite), and that the complex intrusive networks of melt channels in the migmatite region are considered to merge and coalesce during their ascent to upper crustal levels resulting in stocks and plutons of felsic granites that are observed in the Darbuk region.

6 illus, 29 ref

017530   Prakash S;Ramesh R;Sheshshayee M S;Mohan R; Sudhakar M (Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad-380 009, , , Email: satyap@incois.gov.in) : Nitrogen uptake rates and f-ratios in the Equatorial and Southern Indian Ocean. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 239-45.

Report data on nitrate, ammonium and urea uptake rates from the Equatorial and Southern Indian Oceans. Productivity (0.81-2.23 mmol Nm^{-2d-1) over the Equatorial Indian Ocean was low, but the f-ratio (0.13-0.45) wasrelatively high. In the Southern Indian Oceantotal N-uptake rate varied from 1.7 to 12.3 mmol Nm-2d-1; it was higher in the Antarctic coast (69°S) and lower over most of the Southern Ocean, the lowest being at 58°S. The f-ratio also showed significant spatial variation, but was higher compared to values at the Equatorial Indian Ocean. The mean f-ratio in the Southern Indian Ocean was 0.50. The nitrate-specific uptake rates and f-ratios appear to have increased significantly in the recent past relative to earlier estimates. While productivity in the Southern Ocean is comparable to that in the Equatorial Indian Ocean, higher f-ratios in the former underscore its importance in the uptake of CO₂.}

3 illus, 2 tables, 48 ref

017529   Periasamy V;Venkateshwarlu M (CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute, , Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: mamila_v@rediffmail.com) : Magnetic fabric studies of sandstone from Jhuran Formation (Kimmeridgian-Tithonian) of Jara dome, Kachchh Basin, northwest India. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 265-73.

Low-field anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) study was performed on the clastic sandstones of the Jhuran Formation from the Jara dome in the Kachchh basin. The AMS results consistent with petrographic analysis indicate primary deposition fabric for Arkose, sub-litharenite, wacke and quartz arenite sand stones of the Jhuran Formation. Isothermal remanent magnetization and thermal demagnetization curves indicate that magnetite, titano-magnetite and hematite are the chief magnetic minerals contributing to the AMS. The distribution of K₁, K₂ and K₃ axes in the stereo-graphic projections suggest depositional fabric development for arkose, sub-litharenite and wacke, whereas dispersed K₃ axes for quartz arenite are inferred to be due to low strain activity. The shape factors T, qconfirm the oblate-shaped ellipsoid and horizontal fabric respectively, for all samples. The reconstructed palaeoflow directions for arkose and sub-litharenite are NW-SE and for wacke and quartz arenite are NE-SW based on K1AMS axis.

7 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

017528   Paul S;Dutta S (Earth Sciences Dep, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400 076, Email: s.dutta@iitb.ac.in) : Biomarker signatures of Early Cretaceous coals of Kutch Basin, western India. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 211-17.

Unique position of the Indian plate during the Late Mesozoic draws our attention to study the palaeofloral community from the Early Cretaceous coals of the Kutch Basin using organic geochemical proxies. The biomarkers were studied by GC-MS technique to reveal the botanical source of organic matter. The Rock-Eval pyrolysis data show that samples are thermally immature and organic matter is a mixture of type-II and type-III kerogen. Saturated hydrocarbons are characterized by nC₁₄ to nC₃₅ alkanes with odd over even preference (carbon preference index 1.4 to 3). The pristane/phytane ratios ranging from 0.8 to 2.9 indicate suboxic depositional environment. The occurrence of sesquiterpenoids and diterpenoids depicts that the organic matter was derived from conifers. The predominance of abietane/pimarane class diterpenoids and presence of phyllo-cladane suggest that Araucariaceae and Podocar-paceae-dominated conifer vegetation served as the source material for the formation of these Early Cretaceous coal beds of the Kutch Basin.

7 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

017527   Pankaj;Arpita;Pankaj Kumar (NO, , ) : Grain size distribution pattern of soils in Rae Bareilly district, Uttar Pradesh. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 103-10.

Grain size analysis of Rae Bareilly District, U.P. have been done with the help of soil mechanics studies of the 90 soil samples, which have been collected in 2.5x2.5 sq km grid pattern. Soils have been classified based on the gradation curve in case of coarse grain soil and Atterberg's Limit test in case of fine grain soil. After grain size analysis two different maps are prepared one is "Soil Textural Classification Map" and another is "Soil Classification Map (Based on Soil Group)". With the help of above two different maps it was observed that soils of Rae Bareilly district gradationally change from sand to silt and then clay, with the change in the plasticity of the soils. In southern part, soils are non plastic, but the northern as well as north eastern and north western part soils are plastic in nature. Proper precaution is essential for designing the foundation of engineering structures in these areas and high rise buildings are not advisable.

2 illus, 1 table

017526   Mishra P;Saha S K;Pushp Lata (NO, , E.R, Geological Survey of India) : Sherwani landslide complex, east District, Sikkim-a case study. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 130-41.

2 tables, 1 ref

017525   Mishra P;Pushp Lata;Gairola B M (NO, , EPE Div, Geological Survey of India) : Disasters-natural or manmade?-some observations. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 142-52.

The natural disaster in Uttarakhand especially in Kedaranth and Badrinath area in June 16, 2013 has shattered, shocked and shaked the people of the state as well as the nation. This resulted in death of thousands of people and numerous livestock, destroying/damaging vast properties subsequent to cloud burst, lake break, floods, numerous landslides and avalanches. Cloud burst, flash flood and landslides, devastated the Kinnaur area of Himachal Pradesh, on the same day. After the incidence, a large no. of voices raised against the cascading hydro projects which has come up/coming up/planning to come up. Though, the hazard was termed as natural but the interpretation tends to blame anthropogenic activities specially, hydroelectric projects. This paper deals with some observations on the natural calamities during geological periods, ancient/historical periods and recent past. The studies indicate that the natural disaster like cloud burst, glacial lake outburst, floods, earthquake, landslides, shifting of river courses have been experienced in ancient period/historic and recent past where there was no dams and reservoirs. We are facing the same type of hazard/disaster at present. These natural hazards are a part and parcel of the earth history and we have to bear with it. The main causative factors for this hardship and severe degradation of landforms are fast growing population, unplanned settlement, improper construction like roads, buildings, industries, indiscriminate blasting and mining, improper disposal of excavated muck and waste; encroachment of vulnerable slopes, river regimes etc. However, our efforts should be to minimise the affect of these hazards by proper planning, implementation and monitoring of future activities. We need power, industries, irrigation, potable water to cope up the demand of the fast growing populations. As such, we need hydroelectric, irrigation, water supply and multi-purpose projects to meet the need of the population and to keep pace with the development of our country.

5 ref

017524   Mishra P;Gupta S (Engineering Project Evaluation Div, DGCO, Geological Survey of India, New Delhi) : Geological and geotechnical investigations for preparations of bankable DPR on hydroelectric project. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 24-33.

The paper describes methodology for preparation of bankable DPR for water resource projects. Various stages of investigation and the processes involved are given which will facilitate in preparation of dependable DPR. The main requirement of DPR being bankable is the assurance of the project being constructed in the estimated cost and time schedule. DPR stage Investigations can be broadly grouped under: 1. Topographic survey. 2. Hydro-metrological investigations. 3. Geological and geotechnical investigations. The detailed investigations for various structures are also discussed. Investigations related to reservoir, construction material are also debated. The comprehensive paper includes discussion on rock mechanic tests also.

017523   Meenakshi P;Kannadasan K;Ganesh A (Geography Dep, School of Geosciences Bharathidasan Univ, Tiruchirappalli, Email: aganesh2001@gmail.com) : Delineation of groundwater potential zones in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu using remote sensing and GIS techniques. Int J Geosci Technol 2014, 2(2), 1-16.

In the present study, the groundwater potential zone of Coimbatore district is delineated by the integration Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques. The thematic maps such as geology, geomorphology, lineaments, slope and land use/land cover are prepared from IRS -1C, Survey of India (SOI) Toposheets of scale 1:50,000 and from already existing maps. The map layers are assigned with suitable and then integrated in the GIS environment to generate the groundwater potential zones. The occurrence of the groundwater is controlled by the factors such as slope, geomorphology, soil and drainage of the region. The map was classified into four categories, viz., very good, good, moderate, and poor zones. The flood plains, weathered pediplains shows good to moderate groundwater potential zones in the study area. About 50 per cent of the study area shows moderate to good groundwater potential zones whereas only 8 per cent accounts for very good groundwater potential in the study area.

10 illus, 28 ref

017522   Lahiri S K;Sinha R (Applied Geology Dep, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh-786 004, Email: siddharthalahiri@dibru.ac.in) : Application of fast Fourier transform in fluvial dynamics in the upper Brahmaputra valley, Assam. Curr Sci 2015, 108(1), 90-5.

Large tropical rivers such as the Brahmaputra flowing through tectonically active areas show highly variable bankline migration for the channel belt as a whole, as well as intra-bank, over different time windows due to different but non-uniform forcings. Fast Fourier transform (FFT) can be applied to identify frequency (cycles per unit length) content of bankline migration, to classify the wavelengths of different forcings and subsequently to compare the relative influence of different forcings for the trend analysis of bankline shift and width variation. This helps expand the interpretative scope of dynamics of river systems and plan mitigation strategies.

5 illus, 11 ref

017521   Kulkarni G R;Chaudhary I S;Velkare S M;Kavle B T (NO, Mahatma Jyotiba Fule Panivapar Sanstha, Vill.- Ozar, Dist-Nashik-422 206) : Management of water resources: a case study of waghad irrigation project. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika 2014, 22(2), 123-9.

From the beginning, there was a tradition of participatory irrigation management in India. Farmers maintain and operate water resources under partnership. In Mughal's period irrigation systems were planned and handed over to the farmers for management. Farmers co-operated in maintaining these schemes. Before independence, because of some authoritarian policies farmers co-operation declined from water distribution sector. As the co-operation of farmers had gone down, participatory irrigation declined. These policies continued after independence also. Consequently, despite having so many dams in the country, there was a reduction in irrigated area. Farmer's thinking was that the water accumulated in the dam area is rain water and it should be free to everyone. Only few people got the benefits of dam water instead of the entire region. Due to improper management and distribution of water only few people could get the benefits of irrigation water. There was no irrigation water available for the tail farmers and consequently government could not get proper revenue. Because of no revenue, government could not properly maintain the water distribution system. Therefore, national agriculture production decreased along with decreasing the economic and social level of farmers. On the other hand due to fragmentation of land, changes in climate, less rainy days, with increasing population more demand of foods, more interest in cash crop, it became essential to take necessary steps to improve the irrigation distribution system. These improvements are not possible without the co-operation of the farmers. Food security is possible only with the proper distribution of water to the farmers by participating irrigation system.

3 illus, 2 tables

017520   Kori E (Geography and Geo-Information Sciences Dep, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa, Email: Edmore.kori@univen.ac.za) : Unpacking the ecological remnants of Zimbabwe's land reform using the ecological footprint tool. J hum Ecol 2014, 48(2), 313-19.

Land ownership is a central issue to the livelihoods of the predominantly rural population of Zimbabwe. Since 1980, Zimbabwe instituted land reforms to redress colonial land policies. A successful land reform programme should incorporate land use options that galvanise ecological sustainability. Striking a balance among land redistribution, productivity and ecological sustainability is one of the vexing challenges that policy makers in Zimbabwe face. Critics of Zimbabwe's land reform have often characterised this challenge as a remnant of the government's move from the willing buyer willing seller to the accelerated approach. Through case studies and applying the Ecological Footprint tool, this paper scrutinises the ecological implications of land reform in Zimbabwe's resettled areas. Both primary and secondary sources in Chirumanzu District of Zimbabwe provided data for this paper through household questionnaires and key informant interviews. The Ecological Footprint (EF) results portray ecological sustainability. The research concludes that the major shift in the land reform approach since the year 2000 has till retained environmental sustainability.

3 tables, 35 ref

017519   Honkanadavur N P;Kumar N;Ratnam M (NO, , ) : Prediction of shear strength parameter for prototype rockfill material using index properties. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 111-19.

They concluded that stress-strain behaviour is non-linear, inelastic and stress level dependent for both materials. The volume change at failure increases with increase in confining pressure (σ₃) and d_max for both rock fill materials. They also concluded that the shear strength parameter, angle of internal friction, φ) increases with increase in d_max for all the riverbed rock fill materials. However, they concluded that the angle of internal friction, φ decreases with increase in d_max for all the quarried rock fill material.

6 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

017518   Dasgupta S;Mukhopadhyay B (NO, Geological Survey of India, Kolkata, Email: sujitdasgupta@yahoo.com) : Earthquake-landslide-flood nexus at the lower reaches of Yigong Tsangpo, Tibet: remote control for catastrophic flood in Siang, Arunachal Pradesh and upper Assam, India. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 177-90.

Unlike rain driven monsoonal floods in the upper reaches of Brahmaputra River, out of turn flood from breach of barrier landslide dam at the lower reaches of Yigong Tsangpo, upstream Siang River occurred in early June 2000. On 11 June 2000 catastrophic flood discharge passed through Pasighat where Siang debouches to the upper Assam plains in India. The landslide dam blocked the Yigong River on April 9, 2000 after a huge rock-debris avalanche slide down the Zemu creek to form a fan covering 2.5 km of the Yigong River. The slide site has a protracted history of failure since 1900 when the Yigong Lake was first formed; recurrent block and breach of barrier dam followed by flood occurred several times and the lake-reservoir remained as a permanent feature. Seismotectonic analysis around the site indicates that preparatory phase activity within the slide debris was initiated in 1997 - 1998, which was triggered by earthquakes and the main avalanche of 9 April 2000 was also preceded by two earthquakes on the same day that might have been the immediate cause of triggering the landslide. The landslide dam site locates at the junction of two active strike slip faults accompanied with earthquake cluster that also include seismic swarm pulses during monsoon at regular interval, sufficient to destabilize the debris apron over steep rocky slopes. High stress in the region manifests through somewhat anomalous seismic activity including reservoir triggered swarms that have cascading effect through a complex interaction of earthquake, landslide and downstream flood.

8 illus, 2 tables

017517   Dasgupta A;Sachdeva R;Sharma S (NO, CVPP Limited Jammu, 180012, Jammu and Kashmir) : Earthquake occurrences in Kishtwar region, Jammu and Kashmir. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 166-76.

The present study was carried out in a 2° x 2° i.e. 32° N- 34° N and 75°E to 77°E around the proposed sites of Chenab Valley Power Projects viz. Pakal Dul, Kiru and Kwar Hydroelectric Projects which falls under Kishtwar region of J&K State in zone IV of the Seismic Zoning map of India. The entire region of Kishtwar is flanked with number of regional thrusts (Main boundary thrust and Main Central Thrust) along with some local thrusts and faults namely Kishtwar Fault (KF), Buzzensheru fault, Chattru thrust and Shalimar thrust. A study on occurrences of earthquake has been carried out covering around 476 events during last 30 years recorded by Indian Metrological Department. Out of 476 events 28, 293, 97, 51 and 7 lie in a magnitude range of 1-2, 2-3, 3-4, 4-5 and 5-6 on Richter Scale respectively, with shallow focus to intermediate focus earthquakes. There are around 321 earthquakes reported for which the magnitude was less than three and only seven earthquakes experienced for which the magnitude lies in between 5-6. The maximum magnitude recorded in this region which was reported by IMD is M5.8 on lst May 2013 followed by number of aftershocks. The epicentre of most of the earthquakes which occurred in this region lies near to Main Boundary Thrust (MBT), Main Central Thrust (MCT) and Kishtwar Fault (KF). Most of the earthquakes occur in this region are less than 3 in magnitude which reflects that the built up stress was continuously released from time to time which infers to less the probability of large earthquakes in future. This paper attempts to lay emphasis that huge civil structures viz. dams etc. can be constructed even in highly seismic prone areas by analyzing and using site specific earthquake design parameters.

4 illus, 28 ref

017516   Chawre B;Yadav R P;Mishra K K (NO, Central Soil & Material Research Station, Hauzkhas, New Delhi, Email: bharti.bhanu.2005@gmail.com) : In-situ shear strength parameters-a case study. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 96-102.

The strength parameters of rock mass are playing a challenging role in the design of engineering structures in or on rock mass. It is difficult to determine the accurate shear strength parameters of rock masses in the laboratory as the samples need to be undisturbed and sufficiently large to be representative of the discontinum rock mass. Hence, in-situ direct shear tests are conducted to find out the shear strength parameters in terms of cohesion 'c' and angle of friction '0'. Present paper deals with in-situ direct shear tests conducted at dam axis drift of Kirthai H. E. Project (Stage-Il) for rock over rock (Granite Gneiss) interface. In-situ shear tests (rock over rock interface) have been conducted in the drift at different but constant normal load to evaluate shear strength parameter, cohesion 'c' and friction angle '0' of the rock mass. By using best fit line method in the plot of shear stress v/s normal stress, 'c' and '0' are determined. Interestingly higher angle of friction '0' has been observed in the present investigation. The strength of a rock mass depends not only on the nature of the rock material (intact rock), but also on the discontinuities that separate the intact rock blocks. In many cases, the behaviour of a rock mass is controlled by sliding along discontinuities. The present study is focused to highlight the probable reason for this peculiar observation.

6 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

017515   Chasie M;Theophilus P K;Sarkar N K (NO, Geological Survey of India, NER, Shillong, Email: niroj4@gmail.com) : Detailed field-based geotechnical characterization of the two conspicuous rockslides affecting the strategic Hayuliang-Metengliang-Chaglogam (H-M-C) road corridor, Anjaw district, Arunachal Pradesh. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 191-201.

Detailed Geological evaluation and field based geotechnical characterization of the two conspicuous rockslides affecting the strategic H-M-C road corridor, Anjaw district, Arunachal Pradesh was carried out to understand the stability condition of these active rock slide and thereby formulating mitigation measures. The RMR (Rock Mass Rating) and Slope mass rating (SMR) as per Beiniawski (1973) and (Romana, 1985) were estimated from the attributes of the discontinuity surfaces and on field determination of the rock-mass strength using Schmidt Hammer. C (Cohesion) and 0 (angle of internal friction) of the rock mass was estimated from the determined RMR value and utilized for kinematic analysis. At Km 9 location RMR_b, value of the rock mass is estimated to be 50 (Class III, Fair Rock) and corresponding SMR (Romana (1985) is 23 (Class IV, Bad)). Kinematic analysis shows that condition of planar failure along a discontinuity dipping 64° → N145°. Based on the field evaluation and geotechnical characterization, removal of the overhang to the upslope, consolidation of the profusely jointed rock-mass through application of steel fibre reinforced shotcrete (SFRS) and spot bolting (25°-30° → N320°-N330°), etc. has been recommended as remedial measures. In the studied rockslide at KM 29.9, a prominent central depression divides the affected slope face into the left (56°-60° → N315°-N320°) and right slopes (60°-63° → N215°-N220°). The obtained RMR_b value is 44 (Class III, Fair Rock) and corresponding SMR value obtained for the right slope is 17 (Class V, Very bad) whereas SMR value for the left slope is 2 (Class V, Very bad). In the right slope, planar failure along the foliation plane (F_j 54° → N200°), wedge failure along the intersection plane of F_j & J₆ (the wedge dipping 46° → N242°) and toppling failure along the 75° → N34° disposed discontinuity has been interpreted through kinematic analysis. In the left slope, planar failure along the 46° → N302° plane and toppling failure along N32°E /sub vertical plane was similarly interpreted. In the central part, distinct wedge failure (wedge plunging 32° → N264°) along the intersection plane of F_j (54° → N200°) & J₅ (44° → N51°) was seen and interpreted. Based on the above, remedial measures like removal of the overhanging rock mass on the upslope of the road bench, treatment of the slope with SFRS (Steel Fibre Reinforced shotcrete), staggered bolting has been suggested. Further, provision of multilevel transverse structures across the central depression, construction of a two-tier retaining wall to the down slope, stitching/anchoring with the foundation of the retaining walls to the bedrock etc. has been recommended.

10 illus, 4 tables, 5 ref

017514   Chakrabarti R (Centre for Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru-560 012, Email: ramananda@ceas.iisc.ernet.in) : Silicon isotopes: from cosmos to benthos. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 246-54.

Silicon is the second most abundant element on the Earth and one of the more abundant elements in our Solar System. Variations in the relative abundance of the stable isotopes of Si (Si isotope fractionation) in different natural reservoirs, both terrestrial (surface and deep Earth) as well as extra-terrestrial (e.g. meteorites, lunar samples), are a powerful tracer of present and past processes involving abiotic as well as biotic systems. The versatility of the Si isotope tracer is reflected in its wide-ranging applications from understanding the origin of early Solar System objects, planetary differentiation, Moon formation, mantle melting and magma differentiation on the Earth, ancient sea-water composition, to modern-day weathering, clay formation and biological fractionation on land as well as in the oceans. The application of Si isotopes as tracers of natural processes started over six decades ago and its usage has seen a sudden increase over the last decade due to improvements in mass spectrometry, particularly the advent of multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectro-meters, which has made Si isotope measurements safe and relatively easy while simultaneously improving the accuracy and precision of measurements.

^iia1 illus, 112 ref

017513   Basu Roy S (NO, , ) : Geological investigation, a necessity in every stage of project advancement-a case study, Punasi reservoir scheme, Deoghar district, Jharkhand. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 84-95.

1 table

017512   Awasthi N;Ray J S;Pande K (Physical Research Laboratory, , Navrangpura, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: kanchanpande@iitb.ac.in) : Origin of the Mile Tilek Tuff, South Andaman: evidence from <. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 205-10.

Mile Tilek Tuff is one of several consolidated volcanic ash deposits in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that has preserved evidence of a large-scale volcanic eruption in Southeast Asia. Assumed to be of Mio-Pliocene age (~25-2Ma), the tuff was thought to have been generated by the Andaman-Indonesia volcanic arc. Little was known about its source volcano because of absence of critical isotope data. To provide accurate age information and determine its source, we dated the tuff by ^{40Ar-39Ar method and measured its trace element contents and Sr-Nd isotopic ratios. The 40Ar-39Ar plateau age for the whole rock is 0.73±0.16 (2σ) Ma, which suggests that the tuff got deposited much later than previously believed. Chemically, the tuff possesses typical characteristics of subduction zone magmatism. Its Sr-Nd isotopic compositions (87Sr/86Sr=0.7073 and ε_Nd≤0.9) suggest substantial continental crustal contamination of its source magma, which points to a source volcano in Sumatra. Based on available age information on large-scale vol-canic eruptions in Indonesia, authors speculate that the Ranau volcano in south Sumatra could have been the source of the Mile Tilek Tuff.}

4 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

017511   Aravind K;Chandrasekaran S;Sanwal R (Engineering Geology Div, Geological Survey of India, Besant Nagar, Chennai-600 090, Email: gsiaravind@gmail.com) : Geotechnical problem encountered in HRT of Pallivasal Extension Scheme, Idukki district, Kerala. J Engng Geol 2014, 38-9(2,1), 74-83.

Pallivasal Extension Scheme is under construction by Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), to replace the water conductor system of the existing Pallivasal Powerhouse (37.5 MW) and augment the installed capacity of the Project by putting up an additional power house of 60 MW capacity. It is proposed to construct a 3,396 m long, 3.5 m dia. power tunnel, with intake sill level at 1442 m above m.s.l., 7 m dia. 49 m deep circular surge shaft, 1,019 m long 2.5 m dia. pressure shaft, two penstocks, one 1161 m long 2.0 m dia. and another 800 m long with 1.6 m dia. to feed both the power houses. The tail waters of the new powerhouse would be collected in the tailrace weir and flow into the Sengulam Reservoir by gravity. Barring excavation for the initial stretch of power tunnel and surge shaft, other excavations are nearing completion. Hornblende biotite gneiss (migmatite), Pink Granite gneiss and pegmatite forms the foundation/tunnelling media with 5 sets of prominent joint planes were including the foliation joint. While driving the HRT towards the intake direction, problem raised due to land subsidence in the Tata Tea Estate, subsequently geotechnical evaluation have been made at the subsidence area. The reason for the subsidence is directly linked with the reported loose fall in HRT Face - II, since the subsidence area falls in the alignment of the HRT at ch. 1170.50 m (10° 03' 57" E, 77° 03' 32" N), within the Tata Tea Estate. An area of about 10 m dia. has been subsided above the tunnel heading face. The subsidence has created a sink hole of about 6 m depth. Grouting with cement slurry from the surface has been recommended to avoid further sinking of the subsidence. But, the area between ch. 1148 and 1165 m in HRT Face-II show fairly a good rock mass with RQD 75; GSI 40 to 50; 'Q'= 7.5, classified as Fair rock mass quality and RMR = 69, Classified as Good rock mass rating. Since, the effort to drive by method of fore poling have failed, 'Pipe Roofing along with grouting' is suggested for further advancement continuing soft rock tunnelling method, with advance probe hole explorations and these recommendations have been incorporated by the KSEB and are presently being executed.

5 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

017510   Ambekar A S;Sridhar D N;Ray S K;Bhattacharyya T;Anantwar S G;Sahu V T;Gaikwad M S (Archaeological Survey of India, , Goa Circle, Goa-403 402, Email: abhijitasi@yahoo.com) : Probable source of rocks for millstones and cannon balls of Goa, India. Curr Sci 2015, 108(2), 273-82.

Europeans started to come to India at the beginning of the 16th century for trade. The Portuguese were the first group of Europeans to reach the southwestern coast of India in 1498 and establish their colonies. They were also the last group of the Europeans to leave the Indian territory after ruling a part of the country for about 450 years. With their arrival, new technology and warfare tactics were introduced in the region. Associated with their artillery, preparation of gunpowder as a new technology was introduced in Goa. Gigantic sized millstones were used for the production of gunpowder in Casa de Polvora, Panelim, Goa. In 2007, when real estate developers commenced their construction work at Casa de Polvora, the Archaeological Survey of India salvaged the endangered millstones from Panelim. The aim of the present communication is to analyse the samples and to find out whether the stone used was quarried from Dharavi(Uttan; which was a part of Bassein territory of the Portuguese) from where the Portuguese acquired stones on a large scale for the decoration of churches in Goa. To achieve this, archaeological, petrographic, mineralogical and geochemical studies have been carried out on samples of millstones and the quarried site at Dharavi (Uttan). In addition sample was also collected from cannon ball found at Arsenal (Old Goa) to find out whether stone from Dharavi (Uttan) was used. The analytical results suggest that the millstones are made of limestone, the Dharavi (Uttan) stone is more siliceous-and the cannon balls are made from basalt.

7 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

017509   Ahmed T;Jain S K;Aggarwal P K;Rathore D S (NO, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee-247 667) : Application of water resources through use of remote sensing and geographic information system. Bhartiya Krishi Anusandhan Patrika 2014, 22(2), 140-5.

Water is one of the most precious gifts of nature to living beings. Water resources are essential for human life, agriculture and hydroelectric power generation. On account of erratic distribution of rainfall both in time and space, the country is subjected to cycles of floods and droughts. With the increase in demand for water for various purposes and to mitigate the twin problems of floods and droughts faced by the country, a coordinated approach for optimum utilization and proper management of these precious resources are of prime importance. Surveying and mapping is basic to effective water management. Use of traditional methods, such as topographical mapping and aerial photography are time consuming and having several limitations. In the recent years, Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System techniques are being used as modern technique. Remote sensing systems are used to collect and analyze information about resources and environment over large areas in a very less time interval. In the last twenty years, Remote Sensing Satellites of different capabilities have been established and with the help of these satellites, remote sensing data are being received at a regular interval. With the analysis of these data several land use/ land cover maps can be prepared. But the available remote sensing data are not sufficient for using different models and other techniques for optimum utilization of water resources. Geographic information system is one of the modern techniques for the use of these available remote sensing data. Remote Sensing and GIS techniques are being used mostly for different areas of water resource management e.g., land use/land cover mapping, flood plain mapping, watershed mapping and watershed management, command area study, snow cover mapping, reservoir sedimentation, water quality study. The present paper deals with the use of remote sensing and GIS techniques for the application of water resources.

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