OPTIMAL DEVELOPMENT OF GROUNDWATER IN A WELL COMMAND OF EASTERN INDIA USING INTEGRATED SIMULATION AND OPTIMIZATION MODELLING

Abstract

ABSTRACTQuantitative techniques such as simulation modelling and optimization play a vital role in the management of complex groundwater systems. This study demonstrates the combined use of groundwater‐flow and resource optimization models to scientifically address the water scarcity problem in well‐based command areas through a case study in eastern India. A transient simulation‐optimization model was developed for the study area using Visual MODFLOW (groundwater‐flow simulation tool) and the response‐matrix technique to maximize pumping from the existing tubewells. The optimized maximum pumping rates obtained from the integrated simulation‐optimization model were further used in linear programming‐based optimization models to determine optimal cropping patterns for the wet, normal and dry scenarios. The net annual income from the optimal cropping patterns for the wet, normal and dry scenarios were estimated at Rs. 81.8 million, Rs. 76.4 million and Rs. 71.6 million, respectively. The results of simulation‐optimization modelling indicated that if the suggested optimal cropping patterns are adopted in the study area, the net annual irrigation water requirements will be reduced by 28, 35 and 40%, and net annual income will be increased by 28, 23 and 17% during wet, normal and dry scenarios, respectively. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.