Abstract
This paper presents a simple bi-level multi-objective linear program (BLMOLP) with a hierarchical structure consisting of reservoir managers and several water use sectors under a multi-objective framework for the optimal allocation of limited water resources. Being the upper level decision makers (i.e., leader) in the hierarchy, the reservoir managers control the water allocation system and tend to create a balance among the competing water users thereby maximizing the total benefits to the society. On the other hand, the competing water use sectors, being the lower level decision makers (i.e., followers) in the hierarchy, aim only to maximize individual sectoral benefits. This multi-objective bi-level optimization problem can be solved using the simultaneous compromise constraint (SICCON) technique which creates a compromise between upper and lower level decision makers (DMs), and transforms the multi-objective function into a single decision-making problem. The bi-level model developed in this study has been applied to the Swat River basin in Pakistan for the optimal allocation of water resources among competing water demand sectors and different scenarios have been developed. The application of the model in this study shows that the SICCON is a simple, applicable and feasible approach to solve the BLMOLP problem. Finally, the comparisons of the model results show that the optimization model is practical and efficient when it is applied to different conditions with priorities assigned to various water users.
Highlights
If the available water (AW) is greater than the normal demand (Dnor) for all the considered water demand sectors, all the sectors get their full share of water and the optimal water allocation is not required as the upper level and lower level objectives are fully satisfied
The bi-level multi-objective linear program (BLMOLP) model has been applied to the Swat River basin in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, for optimal allocation of limited water resources to four competing water use sectors: i.e. irrigation, industry, domestic, and environment
The reservoir operation model (ROM) estimates the AW for allocation in a dry seasoan, which is used as an input to the BLMOLP
Summary
Using the compromised constraint technique, Roozbahani et al [24] developed a multi-objective optimal water allocation model to resolve the water conflict among competing water demand sectors by simultaneously addressing economic, social and environmental aspects. Using a SICCON technique, this study aims to optimally allocate the available water resources among competing water users by developing a simple and applicable BLMOLP with multiple level decision makers and obtaining solutions that can optimize both the total benefits to the society and the economic benefits of each water use sector. Swat River is a water scarce basin during the dry season and the limited available water resources need to be managed efficiently for sustainable economic development. All these sectors are included in the lower level objective functions
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