Assessment of dam-induced changes in ecogeomorphological behaviour and fluvial functionality in the Damodar River, West Bengal, India

Abstract Anthropogenic interventions in the form of dams and barrages often alter fluvial functionality eco-geomorphological (geomorphology, hydrology, ecology) behaviour river systems. The present work examines environmental flow, channel metamorphosis, Damodar River context Valley Corporation (DVC) development. Structural (dams, barrages, weirs, etc.) non-structural (urban–industrial agricultural disposal with effluents, sand mining, hinder ecological river. This study portrays that have changed due to flow alteration diversion by rapid urban–industrial growth basin area. These changes affected riverine integrity. level this area ranges from 85 181, i.e. poor good–fair. sample sections (i.e., immediate upstream downstream Durgapur Barrage) is poor, value 61 100 hydrological impact barrage belt. assessment will help restore environment for humans as well biota. HIGHLIGHTS Dams altered regimes, affecting alluvial channels. Dam-induced metamorphosis evident morphological parameters classification. index has been applied evaluate restoration environment.