Abstract:
The effect of conjunctive use of surface and
groundwater on waterlogging scenario in the Habibpur
region of lower Gandak command in India is investigated
through simulation technique based on the groundwater flow
package MODFLOW. A groundwater flow model is developed
for the region to simulate groundwater behavior taking into
account the surface and groundwater interaction under
various external stresses. The calibrated model is used to
simulate the extent of waterlogging under increased crop area
coverage and utilization of groundwater potential of the area.
Results show that increase in cropped area coverage has
positive impact in reducing the waterlogged area. The
increased use of groundwater potential during non-monsoon
period further lowers the groundwater table. It induces
condition for more areal recharge and thereby reduction of
waterlogged area. Thus, both options may be effectively used
for better planning, management and reduction of
waterlogged area in lower Gandak command.
