Evaluation of Flooding Risk in Greater Dhaka District Using Satellite Data and Geomorphological Land Classification Map

Abstract

Flood is a common feature in rapidly urbanizing Dhaka city and its surrounding areas. In this research, evaluation of flood risk of Greater Dhaka in Bangladesh has been developed by using an integrated approach of GIS and remote sensing. The objective of the study is to measure the flooding risk based on the satellite data and geomorphological land classification map under the land use/land cover change from 1995 to 2015 related with the urbanization of Dhaka city. Comparing with each landform, land cover unit and historical rainfall data the flooding return period has been calculated. Terrace, natural levee and back swamp has been divided into three sub categories. Especially the built-up zone which is closer to the river channel, former river course and the back swamps are mostly vulnerable to flood inundation. This study revealed that, 70% of Greater Dhaka district within moderate to very high hazard zone, especially surrounding city like Manikganj Sadar Upazila areas. It is expected that, this study could contribute to effective flood forecasting, relief and emergency management for future flood event.