Development of a conjunctive use model to evaluate alternative management options for surface and groundwater resources

A conjunctive use model has been developed to evaluate alternative management options for surface and groundwater resources. A simple water balance approach was used to estimate net recharge to the aquifer. The groundwater model FEFLOW takes net recharge as an input for the water balance calculation and simulates flow in the groundwater under all boundary stresses. The developed model was applied to an irrigated area in the Indus Basin, Pakistan, to predict groundwater levels up to 2010 in response to the possible need for intervention in irrigation and/or agricultural practices. A geographical information system (GIS) was used to assemble various types of spatial data. The study revealed that an increase in pumpage from the present rate would further strain the scarce water resources. Lining of watercourses and adjustment in cropping pattern could be adopted as alternatives for better management of surface and groundwater resources.