GIS and Remote Sensing as Decision Support Tools for Urban Flood Analysis and Recommendations: A Case Study of Vasana District in Ahmedabad

Abstract

In recent years, urban flooding caused by heavy rainfall has become a pressing global issue, including in Indian cities that face challenges such as high population density, rapid development, and resulting encroachment on natural resources. The process of urbanization has significantly altered the natural characteristics of cities, such as green spaces, water bodies, and topography, replacing them with densely built areas and increasing the proportion of impermeable surfaces. This transformation has disrupted the natural drainage patterns and reduced the ability of the soil to absorb water. Consequently, urban areas with high imperviousness experience more frequent and severe flooding events, disrupting social life, ecological balance, and economic activities. The primary objective of this research paper is to explore the potential of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing as a tool for analysis and recommendations in Urban Flooding in Municipalities of fast-growing cities. The study focuses on the Vasna ward of Ahmedabad city, systematically investigating its current conditions using GIS and remote sensing, and proposing strategies to prevent future flood occurrences by incorporating sustainable urban drainage (SUDS) principles into the planning framework of the city.