Image Courtesy : www.iitg.ac.in

A breakthrough study from the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IITG), in collaboration with the Brahmaputra Board, has introduced a cutting-edge model named BRAHMA-2D. This innovative model is engineered to unravel the complex behavior of water flow within expansive braided river systems.

The main objective of this endeavor is to empower engineers with comprehensive insights to design sustainable structures for safeguarding river banks. With a particular focus on the Brahmaputra River near Majuli Island, a region profoundly affected by river bank erosion, this model stands to offer critical solutions.

BRAHMA-2D goes beyond traditional models by providing a nuanced understanding of water speed dynamics at different depths within a river. This knowledge holds immense importance in various domains, including flood mitigation, erosion control strategies, water resource management, and efficient energy generation.

Professor Arup Kumar Sarma, leading the research at IIT Guwahati's Department of Civil Engineering, highlighted the model's versatility. It not only analyzes water movement intricacies at varying depths but also assesses the impact of structures like spurs on preventing river bank erosion. Moreover, it aids in devising eco-friendly techniques to combat erosion challenges.

The impact of this research extends beyond erosion prevention. It also ventures into assessing the environmental suitability of aquatic species, especially endangered ones. By analyzing factors such as water depth and flow velocity, this model provides invaluable insights into the ecological balance of these river systems.

The collaborative effort led by Professor Sarma and Dr. Anupal Barua, a former research scholar, represents a significant stride in understanding and managing the hydro-morphological complexities of braided rivers. This development promises a new frontier in addressing erosion issues and nurturing the ecosystems dependent on these river systems.