Estimation of surface runoff potential of a watershed in semi-arid environment — A case study

Abstract

An accurate assessment of run-off through aerial rainfall is a basic concept in most of the rainfall-runoff models, particularly conceptual models which emphasis a complete water balance. The run-off measurements by gauging can only be regarded as an index of rainfall and restrict our ability to successfully model the rainfall-runoff process. To overcome some of these problems, remote sensing satellite data are of immense use, particularly in mountainous and desert areas. Therefore in the present study, a typical watershed from a drought hit Banswara district of Rajasthan has been analysed using IRS-1B-LISS II satellite imagery for estimating the run-off potential under different geomorphic set-up. The run-off potential was estimated using SCS method based on the satellite data in conjunction with ground truth information collected during field visit. The results indicated that the soil and water conservation measures in the watershed would improve the existing water potential and storage capacity of the study area. Based on the study eight check dams and five lift irrigation schemes are proposed.