Author(s): Shima Shahintaj; Farhad Yazdandoost
Linked Author(s): Farhad Yazdandoost
Keywords: IWRM; WEAP; MCDM; Arid and semi-arid regions
Abstract: T Limited access to water resources associated with climatic conditions of arid and semi-arid regions have often been the source of competitions and conflicts amongst stakeholders. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is seen worldwide as appropriate means of conflict resolution. This study concerns developing methods for sustainable IWRM in an arid and semi-arid region with unique characteristics. Kashan has a rich cultural and historical background as well as being the globally renowned centre for production of the finest Rosewater and hence a hotspot for tourism industry. Situated in central Iran plateau and at the boundary of the central deserts, this region has continually faced water resources limitations resulting in excessive pressures on groundwater resources whilst heavily depending on transboundary water transfers. It has therefore been challenging to plan and manage the regions sustainable development in light of water resources scarcity. In this research, Water Evaluation and Planning System (WEAP) has been used to evaluate the current water management scenario and the effect of proposed developments on water resources in Kashan whilst upholding socio-economical and environmental characteristics of the region. In the face of prevailing scarcity of water resources the optimum situation has been sought as one in which the unmet demand has been kept to a minimum value for different development scenarios. A Decision Support System (DSS) approach has been addressed in the framework of development of a Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) tool to assess ranking and viability of different scenarios. The algorithm devised under a shell is anticipated to be appropriate for IWRM studies in arid and semi-arid regions as a practical toolbox.
Year: 2013