Calibration is the most critical phase in any water quality modelling process. This study proposes a sequential calibration methodology for any water quality model using reach-specific estimates of model parameters, which would aid in the improved prediction of river water quality characteristics. The proposed methodology accounts for the heterogeneity of river reaches, i.e., diverse characteristics of different reaches on the river stretch. The water quality model, QUAL2K, is coupled with MATLAB, a computing platform, to facilitate sequential estimation of reach-wise model parameters using a grid-based weighted average optimization. The Delhi segment of the Yamuna River is selected as study river stretch. Observations of water quality variables, dissolved oxygen and biochemical oxygen demand are used to calibrate and validate QUAL2K. Desirable performance measures are obtained during the calibration and the validation period. The methodology proves superior to the existing calibration methodologies applied over the study region. The proposed technique also captures the system behaviour effectively, through a systematic, efficient and user-friendly way. The proposed approach is expected to aid decision-makers in formulating better reach-wise management decisions and treatment policies by providing a simpler and efficient way to simulate water quality parameters.
Environmental flows (Eflow, hereafter) are the flows to be maintained in the river for its healthy functioning and the sustenance and protection of aquatic ecosystems. Estimation of Eflow in any river stretch demands consideration of various factors such as flow regime, ecosystem, and health of river. However, most of the Eflow estimation studies have neglected the water quality factor. This study urges the need to consider water quality criterion in the estimation of Eflow and proposes a framework for estimating Eflow incorporating water quality variations under present and hypothetical future scenarios of climate change and pollution load. The proposed framework is applied on the polluted stretch of Yamuna River passing through Delhi, India. Required Eflow at various locations along the stretch are determined by considering possible variations in future water quantity and quality. Eflow values satisfying minimum quality requirements for different river water usage classes (classes A, B, C, and D as specified by the Central Pollution Control Board, India) are found to be between 700 and 800 m/s. The estimated Eflow values may aid policymakers to derive upstream storage-release policies or effluent restrictions. Generalized nature of this framework will help its implementation on any river systems.
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