Change detection analysis of Talcher coalfield
using Remote Sensing and GIS

Abstract

The present study focuses on the use of Remote Sensing and GIS as a tool for change detection and land use analysis at Talcher region, Odisha. The region is well known for huge coal mining. Talcher coalfield is one of the major coal producers of the country, and contributes nearly 16.3% of the country’s total reserve. The land cover changes in Talcher area was analyzed for the three different years – 1973, 1990 and 2009. The LANDSAT MSS imagery for 1973 and LANDSAT TM imagery for the years 1990 and 2009 were used for the study. Along with land use and land cover maps, NDVI maps of the area for the given time period have been created. The results show a tremendous increase in the mines area and settlements. Though the water body has not suffered much change but the forest area has drastically decreased.