Vol. 8, Issue 10 (2019)

Author(s):
Smiriti Hansda

Abstract:
This study applied the MIKE SHE model to the Guptamani Watershed in West Bengal, India, to assess water balance and groundwater recharge. MIKE SHE, a spatially distributed, physically-based model, simulates the interactions between surface water and groundwater. The model was calibrated from June 2007 to April 2008 using observed groundwater levels and surface runoff, and then applied to simulate hydrological conditions from May 2008 to April 2009. Results showed that the model accurately simulated groundwater levels (Nash-Sutcliffe coefficients of 0.71 to 0.82) and surface runoff (0.73). The study revealed that actual evapotranspiration accounted for 72.28% of total rainfall, with significant variations in water content across the watershed. These findings provide valuable insights for water management strategies in the face of climate variability and water scarcity.