Water conflict analysis in the Balangan Irrigation Area: causes, impacts, and management strategies

Abstract

The Balangan irrigation area has grappled with a 20-year water shortage due to disorganized canal systems, causing water scarcity in droughts and floods during the rainy season. Conflicts between upstream and downstream users compound these challenges. This study analyzes water conflicts, their causes, impacts, and resolution strategies. Employing descriptive approaches, it identifies factors triggering conflicts, their societal and agricultural effects, and sustainable solutions. Findings reveal that the narrowing of water channels, exacerbated by concrete structures, has caused an imbalance in water distribution between Subak Balangan and Subak Palean. Sedimentation and irregular channel regulation exacerbate water loss and prolonged scarcity. The study underscores the necessity of comprehensive management strategies, prioritizing Water Rights and Allocation Policies, Community Participation, and Rainwater Harvesting and Conservation. These strategies promise practical, feasible, sustainable, and impactful solutions. Regulating water rights and allocations provides a framework, and community engagement ensures local perspectives are considered, while rainwater harvesting and conservation techniques reduce water stress and foster agricultural resilience. Integrating these strategies can achieve a comprehensive approach to sustainable water management in the Balangan Irrigation area.