ANNOUNCEMENTS
Groundwater is the main source for fulfilling water demand in the rural areas. Fluctuating hydrological patterns and rise in water demand make an immense issue of groundwater scarcity. This study aims to characterize and analyze the Mandri river catchment area in Kanker district, Chhattisgarh. Water balance modeling of catchment area using Water Evaluation and Planning System (WEAP) to analyze and compare the current and future water condition in different scenarios of climate change, population growth until 2050 was accomplished. Further, endeavors to identify the suitable zone for water harvesting structures were done.
The characterization of catchment displays that it lies on the crystalline rock, mainly banded-gneissic complex is the principal aquifers present in this area. All the wells are present in the same aquifer and putting more stress on it. Soil type is best suited for growing paddy and it is the main irrigated crop. Livelihood is solely depend on agricultural activities. The WEAP modeling result indicates that in future surface water is more reliable to meet the agricultural demand while groundwater in case of domestic. Though, there are vulnerabilities and limitations regarding the model and input data but still this study demonstrates that the WEAP results offer a strong premise to help planners for recommending the water management in future.
Therefore, management of the groundwater level in the watershed could be possible with the help of identifying appropriate sites for water harvesting structures.
Key words: Groundwater management, WEAP model, water demand, water harvesting structures, watershed management.
