BGSBU researcher maps, models climate-driven soil erosion trends in Jhelum catchment

Posted by admin_kas on 2025-09-20 09:56:32 |

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KS News Desk 

Rajouri, Sept 19: In a significant research achievement, Dr. Shahid Ul Islam, Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), Rajouri, in collaboration with experts from IIT Delhi, the United States Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service (USDA–ARS, USA), and the University of Oulu (Finland), has mapped and modelled soil erosion trends in the Jhelum Catchment.

This first-of-its-kind study in Jammu and Kashmir comprehensively assesses soil erosion at the catchment scale.

The findings have been published in Hydrological Processes (Wiley, Q1 Journal) and the research was supported by the Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology & Innovation Council (JKST&IC), Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

The study integrates advanced spatial modelling tools (RUSLE & InVEST SDR), climate projections (CMIP6, IMD), and GIS-based analysis to forecast soil erosion from 2020 to 2090 under two climate scenarios (SSP245 and SSP585).

Results reveal a projected rise in soil loss rates up to 2090, with severe risks under both moderate and high emission pathways. Scenario-based projections also highlight the dynamic impacts of land use and soil class changes on agriculture and forests, offering actionable insights for climate-resilient planning and sustainable land management in fragile mountain catchments.

Speaking on the significance, Dr. Shahid Ul Islam said soil erosion is not just an environmental concern but a direct threat to agricultural productivity, water security, and ecosystem stability.

"Our study provides a scientific foundation for policymakers and planners to design strategies that can mitigate long-term risks while ensuring sustainable development," he said.

Vice-Chancellor BGSBU Prof. Jawaid Iqbal congratulated Dr. Shahid, noting that such impactful research strengthens the University’s global academic standing and reflects its contribution to addressing climate change and sustainable development

Registrar BGSBU,Abhishek Sharma also extended greetings, emphasizing that the publication demonstrates the academic excellence of the faculty and inspires young scholars to pursue globally relevant research.

Er. Vaseem Ahmad Shahnaz, HoD Civil Engineering also congratulated Dr. Shahid ul Islam and said such contributions assist in taking our Department and the University on the global academic map.

This milestone underscores BGSBU’s growing commitment to advancing research and innovation that addresses pressing environmental and societal challenges at both regional and global levels.