Sediment analysis and modelling based approach for optimal allocation of riverine sandbar for socio economic benefits

Abstract

Increased urbanization and industrial development has led to diminished mainland for agricultural activities. This gives rise to the global temperature and reduction in the agricultural productivity. In the context of agricultural intensification, riverine ecosystem plays an important role. The sandbars provide adequate and stable socio-economic returns by sustaining agronomic and farming activities. However, a comprehensive understanding of cropping pattern and farming activities involving the societal, environmental and socio-economic aspects is necessary. This study focuses on investigating the knowledge on sandbar utilization and developing an optimization model to understand the current activities practiced in riverine ecosystems. Sandbar suitability for agricultural purposes was evaluated by performing sediment analysis, which plays an important role in the growth of crops in the sandbars. The experimental observations and field studies revealed that the vegetated and cultivated sandbars consist of silty and loamy soils, favoring agriculture and the newly formed sandbars were devoid of silt and clay. Subsequently, the optimization model aimed at supporting the decisions for planning of agricultural activities in sandbars. The optimal results when compared with the existing practice in a selected sandbar, showed reduction in the area allocated to rice and oilseeds, alongside an increase in percentage of fibres, cereals, potato and vegetables. The percentage area under rice cultivation reduced by 8% and fibres, vegetables and cereals increased by 7% annually. The net annual benefit under optimal allocations increased from 1.32 Billion Rupees to 1.53 Billion Rupees against the existing pattern. These results were significant in perceiving the shift in the pattern of agricultural activities from the prevailing traditional practices to newer dimensions, which would be beneficial for the farmers to increase their revenue. The suggestions from the study provides a comprehensive understanding and interactions between the agricultural system and society via optimization approaches, that will benefit the impoverished and can be a boon into the agriculture revolution amidst urban expansions.