21-Stream gauging in India - Practices and problems

Abstract

Streamflow is a very important phase of the hydrological cycle as far as its utilisation by mankind is concerned. At the same time this phase also creates disastrous situations for the surrounding areas. For better design, management and operation of various conservational and protectional projects an idea about the amount of water flowing through a particular section of stream is very essential. Stream flow measurement is thus a very important hydrological investigation activity. In this chapter the present status of stream gauging in India is discussed. The factors which have effected the use of certain methodologies and equipment at different stream gauging sites have been presented. A few problems which are faced while using these equipment have been brought into the state of stream gauging in India.