P.C. Vanlalnunpuia^1,, S.T. Lalzarzovi¹, P.C. Lalbiaknii², Joney Lalnunpuii Pachuau³

Anthropogenic factors and pressures on protected areas often have negative consequences on the ecosystem function which leads to loss of flora and fauna. The goal of this research aims to investigate the alteration of forest vegetation by utilizing remote sensing techniques profiled from 2006 - 2018 in Pualreng Wildlife Sanctuary with an area of 50 km². The spatial distribution of forest cover was mapped using the IRS-P6 LISS III satellite images. The satellite-based survey revealed that 5.23 km² of forest cover was lost during 2006 - 2018.The periodical observations showed that the forest cover was 48.82 km² (97.64 % coverage of PWS) in 2006, which moderately declined to 48.17 km² (96.33 %) losing 0.65 km² of forest cover in 2012. However, a steep decline was observed from 2012 to 2018 where forest cover was reduced to 43.59 km² (87.19 %) losing 4.58 km² of forest area. The main cause of this loss is due to the construction of Tuirial Hydro Electric Power Station based on the rivers alongside the sanctuary. The reservoir of this dam has submerged large quantities of trees and forest areas creating many small fragmented and inhabitable lands, thus, disturbing the ecosystem function of this sanctuary. The study also feature the potential of periodic monitoring using multi-temporal satellite observations for the monitoring and management plans of these protected areas.

remote sensing, GIS, tropical forest, anthropogenic, Pualreng Wildlife Sanctuary