Evaluating a multi-reservoir system for sustainable integrated operation using a simulation model

In a multi-reservoir system, operation of one reservoir affects the other reservoir in the system. Integrated operation of all the reservoirs in a multi-reservoir system is essential for sustainable water management. However, low water availability in a basin because of less rainfall makes the integrated operation of a multi-reservoir system complex. Therefore, assessing the existing operational policies of a multi-reservoir system is vital for sustainable integrated operation. In the present study, a comprehensive simulation model has been developed to evaluate the existing operational policies of a multi-reservoir system, namely Kukadi Irrigation Project (KIP) in India for its irrigation and intra basin water transfer using the statistical performance indices, such as reliability, resilience and vulnerability. It is found that among five reservoirs of the KIP system, two reservoirs often failed to meet the irrigation demands indicating that the intra basin water transfer releases are not optimal and also not at appropriate time. This study also shows the need for an optimal cropping pattern for sustainable operation of KIP system in an integrated manner. The sustainability in meeting the irrigation demands can be achieved through optimal intra basin water transfer policies.