Challenges of using remote sensing and GIS in developing nations

Excerpt

The total water requirement of India by the year 2050 has been estimated at 1,450 km³/year (MOWR 1999). This is significantly more than the current estimate of utilizable water resources potential of 1,122 km³/year (surface water = 690 km³/year and groundwater = 432 km³/year) through conventional development strategies (Gupta and Deshpande 2004). India’s water problems basically stem from disparate precipitation, mismanagement, and the fact that while nearly 70% of precipitation occurs in 100 days, the water requirement is spread over 365 days. Indeed, water is the biggest crisis facing India in terms of spread and severity. Water is rationed, even in the big cities of Chennai, Bangalore and Delhi. Currently, eight of India’s 20 major river basins in its rural areas are in water deficit. Over 5.6 million tubewells and 3.5 million hand pumps have lowered groundwater levels beyond the economic lifts of pumping and new tubewells are being drilled to a depth of 200 m across the country (Aiyar 2003); overuse of groundwater is reported from many different parts of the country. Consequently, India’s food security is under serious threat and the lives and livelihoods of millions are at risk. Water scarcity is very common in other developing nations also. Thus, there is an urgent need for the widespread realization in developing countries (including India) that water is a finite and vulnerable resource, which must be used efficiently, equitably, and in an ecologically sound manner for both present and future generations. …