Effect Of Conjunctive Use On Waterlogging In Lower Gandak Basin Of Bihar

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.