Blue Water Scarcity Assessment in Banas River Basin using Water Footprint Approach

Abstract

In order to increase water availability, improve water quality, and ensure long-term sustainability, river basin-scale planning and management of water resources is crucial. Using the blue water scarcity index and the water footprint concept, this study assesses blue water scarcity in the Banas river basin from 2008 to 2020. Banas basin experiences considerable scarcity, with the value of the average annual blue water scarcity index being 140.9% which can be characterized as moderate. Banas river basin typically experiences significant blue water scarcity for three months of the year (November, December and January). Compared to these months, it is low for three months (August, September, and October), moderate for four (April, May, June, and July), and significant for two months of the year (February and March). Farmers in the basin should adopt improved water management practices to ensure sustainability and address water scarcity issues. This study can provide a framework for policy to solve some policy and water management related issues in the basin. It can also help with more effective water resource allocation and utilization.