Multi-temporal image derived Ratio Vegetation Index and NDVI in a landslide prone region

Landuse maps are prepared from satellite imagery and field observations were conducted at various locations in the study area. Compared to the field data and NDVI and RVI thematic maps, NDVI is better than RVI, because it compensates for changing illumination conditions, surface slope, aspect and other factors. Clouds, water and snow have negative values for RVI and NDVI. Rock and bare soils have similar reflectance in both NIR and visible band, so RVI and NDVI are near zero. In forest areas with good vegetation cover, NDVI is high and landslide occurrence is less. But if annual and biennial vegetations are present and if cultivation practices are changed frequently, NDVI is medium and landslide occurrence is moderate. In areas where deforestation and settlement is in progress, NDVI is less and landslide occurrence is more. The NDVI FCC thematic map may be used as an important layer in GIS application for landslide studies. Analyzing other layers such as slope, rainfall, soil, geology, drainage, lineament, etc with NDVI FCC layer will give a better idea about the identity of landslide prone areas.