Conjunctive use of water in a basin meansa)combined use of water for i...
The conjunctive use of water means combined use of surface water resources & groundwater, in a unified way, to optimize resource and minimize adverse effects of using a single source.
Conjunctive use of water in a basin meansa)combined use of water for i...
Conjunctive Use of Water in a Basin
Conjunctive use of water in a basin refers to the combined use of surface and groundwater resources to meet various water demands. This approach involves managing both surface water and groundwater in an integrated manner to ensure sustainable water supply for different sectors. Here is an explanation of this concept:
Combined Use of Surface and Groundwater Resources
- Conjunctive use involves utilizing both surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, as well as groundwater from aquifers.
- By combining these resources, water managers can optimize water availability and reliability, especially in regions facing water scarcity or variability.
- This approach allows for better water management by balancing the extraction of groundwater with surface water supplies, reducing the risk of overexploitation of aquifers.
Benefits of Conjunctive Water Use
- Improved water security: By diversifying water sources, conjunctive use can enhance water security and resilience to droughts or other climate-related challenges.
- Increased water efficiency: Integrating surface and groundwater resources can lead to more efficient water use, reducing wastage and improving overall water management practices.
- Sustainable water supply: Conjunctive use helps in sustainable water management by ensuring the long-term availability of water resources for various uses, including agriculture, industry, and domestic consumption.
Challenges of Conjunctive Water Use
- Technical complexities: Managing both surface and groundwater resources together can be technically challenging, requiring sophisticated infrastructure and monitoring systems.
- Legal and institutional issues: Effective conjunctive water use may require changes in water governance structures and legal frameworks to facilitate integrated water management at the basin scale.
In conclusion, conjunctive use of water in a basin offers a holistic approach to water management that can help address water challenges and ensure sustainable water supply for different sectors.