Landslide Development Characteristics and Risk Zoning along the Dir Road in North Pakistan

Abstract

Landslides, one of nature's most lethal disasters, involve the movement of earth, rock, or debris down a slope. Triggered by factors like rock decay, rainfall, floods, earthquakes, and human activities, landslides cause extensive damage to infrastructure and significant economic losses worldwide. In Pakistan, a geologically active and mountainous region, landslides are prevalent, especially during the monsoon season and seismic events. Human activities such as deforestation, mining, and construction exacerbate the risk. This study employs SRTM 30-meter satellite imagery and GIS technology to analyze landslide risk zones in the Dir, Kohistan area. Using a multi-criteria evaluation of parameters including lithology, slope gradient, and land cover, five classes of landslide risk zones were identified. The study highlights that 13% of the area is high-risk, with significant influence from fractured rock types, proximity to faults, and lack of forest cover. Immediate mitigation actions are recommended for the highly vulnerable regions to reduce future landslide hazards.