Paper Title
ANALYSIS OF WATER ALLOCATION AND DEMAND MANAGEMENT IN KATHA BASIN
Abstract
Abstract - The Katha Basin, part of the Upper Ayeyarwaddy River Basin in Myanmar, faces significant water resource challenges due to rising water demand, population growth, and climate variability. This study assesses and simulates the spatial and temporal dynamics of water demand in the Katha Basin, utilizing the Water Evaluation and Planning (WEAP) model to evaluate unmet water needs across domestic and agricultural sectors under various scenarios. The findings reveal consistent unmet water demands, particularly in Bhamo, MyitkyinÄ, and Puta-O, indicating a need for improved water management strategies. Scenario analyses, including enhanced Demand Management Strategies (DMS) and Optimal Cropping Patterns (OCP), demonstrate potential reductions in unmet demand by implementing water-saving techniques and adapting crop patterns to mitigate climate impacts. The study underscores the importance of equitable water resource allocation, efficient management practices, and stakeholder engagement in addressing the basin's growing water scarcity, ensuring sustainable water availability for both human and environmental needs by 2100.
Keywords - Katha Basin, Water Demand, WEAP, Demand Management Strategies, Optimal Cropping Patterns