The sinuous bedrock channel of the Tapi River, Central India: Its form and processes

Interestingly, meso-scale erosional features such as inner channels and well-developed potholes are nearly absent or inconspicuous within the gorge section. Whilst this could be partly attributed to the bedrock resistance, it appears that under the present hydro-geomorphic conditions the dominant fluvial activity is not directed towards the channel bed, but towards the banks. This is evident from the concentration of erosion on the outer banks and deposition of coarse gravel on the inner banks, and armoring of the channel bed. The main conclusion of the study is that the bedrock channel is increasing the flow resistance and energy losses by developing and enhancing the meandering pattern.