Water evaluation and planning tool

Water is crucial for rice cultivation, with total water needs depending on evapotranspiration (ETc), seepage, and percolation. These factors vary based on soil type, crop growth stage, and climatic conditions across agro-ecological environments. This study estimates crop water and irrigation requirements in Raipur District, Chhattisgarh, using the MABIA method in WEAP software. The method, based on the dual crop coefficient, simulates daily evapotranspiration. FAO guidelines and the irrigator's formula determine irrigation needs, while ArcGIS generates block-wise irrigation maps. Results show rice crop water requirements range from 648.66 mm to 847.87 mm in the Kharif season, with irrigation needs between 1,23,193 MCM and 2,57,533 MCM, depending on agricultural area. Accurate estimation prevents crop wilting or excessive water loss. The WEAP model results, validated against observed data, show only a 2.5% deviation, confirming reliability. This study aids in optimizing water use for improved rice production.