Land suitability modelling for enhancing fishery resource development in Central Himalayas (India) using GIS and multi-criteria evaluation approach.

Abstract

In recent years, fish production from open waters in Central Himalayas, especially from riverine system, has declined considerably. Degradation of soil and water quality and poor infrastructure facilities are among the major causes of declined fish production in this region. Keeping this in view, the present investigation was carried out to assess the soil, water and infrastructure facilities by using geographical information system (GIS) and multi criteria evaluation approach which helped in understanding the key elements to develop and improve resource management strategies that are vital to ensure sustainable fish stocks in this region. Various important parameters of soil, water and infrastructure facilities of this mountainous region were thoroughly assessed by analytical hierarchy process (AHP) for development of fish culture. Based on these characteristics, sixteen thematic layers were prepared using the Geomedia Professional software to develop a series of GIS models/ submodels. In this process, the region was categorized to different suitable locations for the development of highland and lowland fishery. The model output clearly indicates the location and extent for the development of this sector in different suitability scales viz., most suitable (51,112 ha, i.e. 13%) and moderately suitable (61,164 ha i.e. 15%) out of the total land cover area of Nainital district (about 402,000 ha). The study will help planners to design plans to harness maximum fish biomass and to derive social benefits from inland open waters in the region.