A Comprehensive Review on Sediment Transport, Flow Dynamics, and Hazards in Steep Channels

Abstract

The hydrological channel networks of the steep mountains are extensively designated and organized geographic systems and are very complicated. They are composed of granular beds that are uneven and are subjected to fluid forces that fluctuate spatially and temporally. The flow and movement of sediment in these streams are significantly shaped by large rocks such as boulders. However, it is difficult to comprehend these mountain streams because significant information is unavailable regarding these channels as compared to plane bed streams. To address this issue, a critical review of the numerical, computational fluid dynamics, and machine learning mechanisms underlying sediment transport across different flow conditions in steep channels is presented while considering the current and foreseeable conditions for various sediment transport phenomena. The present study emphasized to carry out further analysis on these steep channels using advanced available techniques to get an insight into the morphology of these channels. Furthermore, the hazards associated with steep mountain channels are reviewed as they have a significant impact on infrastructure and habitation in mountainous regions.