Assessment of Canal Storage Dynamics for Sustainable Water Management in Thrissur North Kole Lands

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study is to estimate the canal storage capacity in Thrissur North kole lands to support effective water management for irrigation, drainage and flood control. Study Design: The study involves estimating canal storage in Thrissur North kole lands using water depth measurements, bed slope data and trapezoidal rule calculations, conducted on a decadal basis. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Thrissur North kole lands, located in Kerala, India, during 2022. Methodology: Accurate estimation of canal storage capacity in Thrissur North kole lands is essential for managing water resources to support irrigation and mitigate floods. The study measured water depths in canals while the Enamakkal and Idiyanchira regulators were fully closed and calculated depth variations along the canals using bed slope data and measurements taken at multiple points (start, middle, and end). All canals were digitized within an ArcGIS environment to determine their total length. The trapezoidal rule was applied to estimate the storage capacity of each canal, enabling an accurate evaluation of the canal system's overall storage potential. Results: The total canal length in the Thrissur North kole lands was determined to be 77.02 km. Decadal storage capacity estimations for 2022 revealed a range of 29.0 to 53.86 Mm³, with an average storage capacity of 42.40 Mm³. Additionally, a relationship between the water level at the Enamakkal regulator and canal storage capacity was developed. Conclusion: The study concludes that accurate estimation of canal storage capacity using water depth measurements, bed slope data, and trapezoidal rule calculations offers valuable insights for optimizing water management strategies, ensuring effective irrigation and mitigating flood risks in the Thrissur North kole lands.