Current research based on advanced technologies and innovative approaches can better save time and investment and appear more compatible with field studies. Based on remote sensing and ArcGIS technologies, the following research comprised the analysis of the natural and anthropogenic landscape variations in natural conditions. These were a result of the development of the agriculture sector in the 20-km buffer zone along the banks of the Kura and Araz rivers, Azerbaijan. In this regard, this study’s main purpose sought to analyze the problems that arise during the intensive exploitation of the territory and provide information about the future forecast. Modern technology employment succeeded, processing the materials of Landsat 5, 8, and 9 satellites. The results revealed the rapid growth of population has caused soil salinization, drought of the water basins, expansion in construction areas, and an overall reduction in the agrolandscape area.
Kur-Araz plain, climate action, remote sensing, agriculture, NDVI, NDMI, NDWI
Studies integrating multi-temporal satellite-derived vegetation and moisture indices (normalized differences in vegetation, moisture, and water indices [NDVI, NDMI, and NDWI]) with GIS analysis revealed pronounced variations in the vegetation dynamics, soil moisture, and surface water availability in the Kura–Araz Plain, Azerbaijan. These explained spatial patterns of agricultural suitability and highlighted enhanced risks to sustainable land use under intensive exploitation.