Ingenieur Vol 99 final July-Sept 2024 | Page 32

INGENIEUR
INGENIEUR
Figure 4 : Coupling ML and GCMs for modeling future irrigation water availability
water availability due to factors such as climate change , population growth , and competing water demands .
● Climate Change Adaptation : Climate change is expected to alter precipitation patterns , increase temperatures , and affect the availability of water resources . Future projections of irrigation availability for rice can help farmers and policymakers develop adaptation strategies to cope with these changes , such as implementing more efficient irrigation techniques , shifting planting schedules , or diversifying crop choices .
● Water Resource Management : Understanding future irrigation availability allows for better management of water resources . It enables policymakers to allocate water resources efficiently , prioritise water use among different sectors , and implement measures to conserve water and improve water-use efficiency .
● Economic Stability : Rice farming is not only important for food security but also for the economy of many regions . Predicting irrigation availability helps farmers make informed decisions about crop selection , investment in irrigation infrastructure , and risk management strategies , which ultimately contribute to economic stability and livelihood security .
● Environmental Sustainability : Irrigation practices can have significant environmental impacts such as depletion of water resources , soil degradation , and habitat loss . Future projections of irrigation availability can inform efforts to balance agricultural production with environmental sustainability , promote practices that minimise water waste , preserve soil health , and protect natural habitats .
30 VOL 99 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2024