Optimization of Cropping Patterns in the Command Area of Single and Multiple Reservoir System of Semi Arid River Basin

Abstract

The multiple reservoir system saves and supplies an additional quantity of water to grow crops during a subsequent season in the command areas of semi-arid regions. However, optimizing of cropping patterns in the command area of multiple reservoir systems is crucial to increasing agricultural yield and food security to feed an increasing global population. The objectives of the study are to optimize cropping patterns in the command area of single and multiple reservoir systems using conventional and advanced optimization techniques, to enhance net benefits in the command area of the semi-arid river basin. newlineThe Aji-2, Nyari-2, and Aji-3 reservoirs are selected for single and multiple reservoir systems located at Aji river basin of semi-arid region in Rajkot district of Gujarat. A total of thirty-six LP models were developed to derive maximum NBs in the command area of single and multiple reservoir systems. The results of different LPM models of single reservoir systems and multiple reservoir systems were compared. From comparisons of results, it can be concluded that the NBs and total optimal crop area increased by 4.2 % and 8.0 % respectively at a 75% dependability level of inflow in the command area of multiple reservoir systems compared to a single reservoir system. Augmentation of low cost and dry crop areas such as fodder, juvar/bajri/maize, onion in the command area of multiple reservoir system operations is helpful to enhance NBs and has reduced the impact of drought. Crops like wheat and groundnut have shown less potential to increase. From the comparison of performance assessment of water resources management system, it has been observed that the performance indices value was reduced in multiple reservoir system operations. Therefore, it is desirable to operate the reservoir in an integrated manner in a multiple reservoir system instead of a single reservoir system to optimize cropping patterns in the semi-arid river basin.