An improved divided channel method has been proposed by modelling a parameter using the function of depth ratio for a multi-stage compound channel. Experimental data suggest that as the flow depth increases over the second stage floodplain, fractional contribution of the main channel and first stage floodplain under bankfull height plays a pivotal role in shear layer and momentum distribution. Therefore, a new mathematical model has been suggested for estimating the stage-discharge relationship for staged channels of more than one floodplain using the 1D technique of overall roughness correction.