Futter, Martyn
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Abstract
Identification of factors controlling sediment dynamics under natural flow regimes can establish a baseline for quantifying effects of present day hydrological alteration and future climate change on sediment delivery and associated flooding. The process-based INCA-Sediment model was used to simulate Ganga River sediment transport under baseline conditions and to quantify possible future changes using three contrasting climate scenarios. Construction of barrages and canals has significantly altered natural flow regimes, with profound consequences for sediment transport. Projected increases in future monsoonal precipitation will lead to higher peak flows, increasing flood frequency and greater water availability. Increased groundwater recharge during monsoon periods and greater rates of evaporation due to increased temperature complicate projections of water availability in non-monsoon periods. Rainfall and land surface interaction in high-relief areas drive uncertainties in Upper Ganga sediment loads. However, higher monsoonal peak flows will increase erosion and sediment delivery in western and lower reaches.
Keywords
sediment modelling; sediment management; Ganga; climate change; tropical rivers; process-based model
Published in
Hydrological Sciences Journal
2018, volume: 63, number: 5, pages: 763-782
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
SLU Authors
Global goals (SDG)
SDG6 Clean water and sanitation
UKÄ Subject classification
Oceanography, Hydrology, Water Resources
Publication identifier
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/02626667.2018.1447113
Permanent link to this page (URI)
https://res.slu.se/id/publ/95059