Perceived Human-Induced Causes of Landslide in Chattogram Metropolitan Area in Bangladesh

This study investigates Land Use Land Cover changes in the Chattogram metropolitan area, the second largest city in Bangladesh. Using a questionnaire survey of 150 local inhabitants, the study explores perceived human-induced causes of landslides. Using time series Landsat images this study also analyzes Land Use Land Cover changes from 1990 to 2020. The analysis reveals built-up area extended rapidly during 1990 to 2020. In 1990, total built up area was 82.13km², which in 30 years, stood at 451.34km². Conversely, total vegetative area decreased rapidly. In 1990, total vegetation area was 364.31km², which reduced to 130.44 km² in 2020. The survey respondents identified extensive rainfall, hill cutting, steep hill, and weak soil texture as several reasons for landslide. Findings show that age and experience of facing landslide are two significant predictors to explain whether excessive hill cutting is solely responsible for landslide. Level of education and experience of facing landslide are statistically significant in explaining building infrastructure as solitary cause to landslide. Gender, age and income of the respondents significantly explain deforestation as the only responsible for landslide. Finally, gender, level of education, and income of the respondents significantly explain only excessive sand collection causes landslide.