Conjunctive Use of Surface Water and Groundwater for

Sustainable Water Management

H. Ramesh and A. Mahesha

Dept. of Applied Mechanics & Hydraulics,

National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, Mangalore
India
Abstract: A critical problem that mankind had to face and cope with is how to manage the
intensifying competition for water among the expanding urban centers, agricultural sectors and
in-stream water uses. Water planner can achieve a better management through basin wide
strategies that include integrated utilization of surface and groundwater which may be defined
as conjunctive use Conjunctive use is the simultaneous use of surface water and groundwater.
Investment in conjunctive use raises the overall productivity of irrigation systems, extends the
area effectively commanded, helps in preventing water logging and can reduce drainage needs.
Lettenmaier and Burges (1982) distinguished conjunctive use which deals with the short term
use from the long term discharging and recharging processes known as cycle storage. Until late
1950s, development and management of surface water and groundwater were dealt separately,
as if they were unrelated systems. Although the adverse effects have been evident, it is only in
recent years that conjunctive use is being considered as an important water management
practice.