Five dune classes were observed: parabolic, barchan, longitudinal, transverse, and sand sheet. Parabolic dunes and sand sheets are widely distributed and are dominant classes in the Thar Desert. Other classes of land cover observed were canal, saline area, salt lake, and protected plantation.
The Thar desert is the most fragile ecosystem of India.
The Luni River is the only river integrated into the desert.
Rainfall is limited to 100–500 mm (4–20 inches) per year.
Its low and uncertain rainfall, high temperatures, high wind speeds, and a rolling sandy topography dominated by 10 to 40 m high Sand dunes,provide an awe-inspiring glimpse of desolation and emptiness in the western part of Rajasthan in India and adjoining part of Pakistan, between the Aravalli Hill Ranges and the adjoining Indus valley.
Landsat MSS digital data provide an important means for the study of sand dune morphology and distribution, land cover change, and desertification monitoring.