Executive Summary : | The proposed project is based on the experimental and machine-learning approaches to understand the flow characteristics in a vegetated meandering channel. The experimental part will be carried out in the Fluvial Mechanics laboratory of Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, Kolkata that has the facilities to create mobile-bed conditions, meandering channel, etc. Three-dimensional flow velocity will be measured by using Vectrino (Acoustic Doppler velocimeter). The captured data will be analysed to observe the three-dimensional turbulent bursting (using octant analysis), turbulence anisotropy, structure functions-based anisotropy, higher-order structure functions, etc. The machine-learning algorithms will then be applied to verify the experimental findings to the similar fluid flow configurations. Findings of the proposed work will enrich the knowledge in understanding and predicting the effect of flow structures in a vegetated meandering channel. The problem has a significant importance in aquatic science, river morphodynamics, biological science, etc. It will help also help to get an idea about importance of vegetation in controlling flood and conservation of protection dikes, retention dams, appointed river banks, etc. Experimental data verified by the Machine-learning algorithms will boost up the understanding of the flow characteristics of vegetated open channels. However, we expect high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals contributing to new findings in fluvial hydraulics. If any of the results is suitable for commercial use, patenting will also be attempted. After a satisfactory completion of the work, a thesis will be submitted for a doctoral degree. |