Evaluation of the state of water resources using Modified Water Poverty Index: a case study in the Srepok River basin, Vietnam – Cambodia

Abstract

In order to evaluate clearly the state of water resources in the Srepok River basin – a typical rural area in South-East Asia, a Modified Water Poverty Index (MWPI) was developed. Indicators of five components of MWPI were evaluated using the benchmark approach. The cross-correlation among indicators of each component as well as among components were checked; and the high-correlated indicators were eliminated. The calculated MWPI and its components were then mapped and analysed to three different scales (basin, sub-basin and district). From the overall MWPI score, a general conclusion was drawn on the water poverty situation in the basin. The results reveal the variation of water poverty across the basin with the overall MWPI of 64.8, indicating that the basin is in a ‘medium-low’ water-poor situation. ‘Access’ and ‘Capacity’ components are observed to be the main causes of the water problem in the basin. There is a high disparity among the five components of MWPI when spatial and temporal variation of variables is taken into account. It is recommended that the state of water resources should be assessed based on the components rather than the composite index. The differences that scales make indicate the importance of selecting an appropriate scale for water resources assessment. By using the benchmark approach, the pertinence of MWPI results are improved and the potential for wider applicability can be extended. By examining the indicators in the five components, a policy for water development and management is proposed and specific interventions recommended. This result can provide useful information for decision-makers in prioritizing investments in the water sector.