Integrated Modeling Framework to Evaluate Conjunctive Use Options in a Canal Irrigated Area
Publication: Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 139, Issue 9
Abstract
In canal irrigated areas, where interactions between surface water and groundwater are high, the conjunctive management of surface water and groundwater can play a significant role in improving water availability in time and space, thereby promoting more equitable distribution of water while maintaining long-term availability of groundwater resources. Achieving a harmonious balance between the use of surface water and groundwater requires careful consideration of the associated benefits, impacts, and trade-offs. In this study, a simple, integrated framework was developed and implemented to characterize and quantify interactions between surface water and groundwater in a canal irrigated area; this framework was used to evaluate the impacts of alternative levels of conjunctive use under varying climate and cropping conditions. Applying the model to a case study area of the Srisailam Right Branch Canal project in Andhra Pradesh, India, indicated that regulating canal supplies to optimum levels can prompt sustainable groundwater use and save up to 48% of allocated canal water; these water savings could be reallocated elsewhere within the irrigated area to promote equity.
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Acknowledgments
The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research is acknowledged for enabling the study to take place. The lead author was funded by the Prime Minister’s Australia-Asia award granted by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR), Australian Government. We are grateful for the guidance and direction provided by Dr. R. Sakthivadivel, Dr. K. Palanisami, and Dr. Madar Samad and the support extended by Mr. Vinay Kumar, Special Commissioner at the Irrigation and Command Area Development (I&CAD), Authority, Andhra Pradesh, Mr. B. M. Murali Krishna Rao, Director of the Groundwater Department (GWD), Andhra Pradesh, Mr. Suhas Raje and Dr. Joseph Plakkootam at I&CAD and Mr. Subramaniam at GWD, Nandyal. The authors also extend their gratitude to the agricultural officers and farmers of SRBC Block IV, who were kind enough to share their experiences. A special note of thanks is owed to Ms. Aruna Jyothi and Mr. Venkatradha at IWMI for their help with generating GIS maps.
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Information & Authors
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Published In
Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering
Volume 139 • Issue 9 • September 2013
Pages: 766 - 774
Copyright
© 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Mar 5, 2012
Accepted: Mar 19, 2013
Published online: Mar 20, 2013
Discussion open until: Aug 20, 2013
Published in print: Sep 1, 2013
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