Forms, process and measurement of braided rivers: a review

Braiding is one of the three main types of river planform. They are mainly characterized by high energy distribution, steep slopes, fluctuating discharge, abundance of sediments, bank erosion along with bar formation. This review paper is an attempt to present a comprehensive summary on braided river environments, process of braiding, the differences in the making of the type of bars and the measurement of braiding intensity. Bank line erosion along the braided river is associated with the bar or island development. Effect of tributaries to the main channel planform is quite significant as it provides water and sediments both. The measurement of braiding intensity is another important factor which is hard to measure against the dynamism of the flow and renewed shape of the bar more often. The Channel Count Index is found to be more appropriate to measure braiding intensity as it is less sensitive to the flow stage and provides a higher level of accuracy. Interdisciplinary approach for braided river management is required to preserve the ecological diversity and lessen the adverse effect of bank erosion hazard.