IIT Bombay Develops Smart Irrigation Plan to Conserve Water

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune (IITM Pune) have introduced a Smart Irrigation Plan designed to save between 10% and 30% of irrigation water in regions prone to drought. This innovative approach integrates weather forecasts, satellite-derived soil moisture data, and computer simulations to enhance irrigation management.

The research team, comprising members from the Department of Civil Engineering and the Centre for Climate Studies at IIT Bombay and IITM Pune, developed a method to predict irrigation water needs up to three weeks in advance, focusing on both district and sub-district levels. The researchers emphasized the necessity for farmers in drought-affected areas to have a reliable irrigation strategy, given the unpredictability of rainfall and the urgent need to conserve dwindling groundwater resources.

In their pilot study conducted in Nashik district of Maharashtra, the team found that local grape farmers utilized soil moisture sensors to assess their irrigation needs. Following this, the methodology was implemented in Bankura, a drought-prone district in West Bengal, across 12 sub-districts. “During our pilot study in Nashik, we incorporated local weather forecasts alongside soil moisture data and demonstrated that groundwater conservation could reach up to 30%,” stated Professor Subimal Ghosh of IIT Bombay. The initial predictions focused on short-range forecasts of one week.

The research methodology took into account various factors such as crop types, growth patterns, root zone depth, and specific water requirements. By feeding weather forecasts and soil moisture information into a computer model, the researchers could analyze expected rainfall, soil water capacity, and crop needs. This model provides actionable insights, advising farmers whether to irrigate or conserve water based on predicted weather conditions.

If the model forecasts no rainfall, it advises immediate irrigation. Conversely, if rain is expected, it recommends postponing irrigation to prevent overwatering. This method not only supports optimal crop growth but also promotes water conservation practices among farmers.

The research team utilized global soil maps and combined satellite and ground data to assess soil moisture, considering parameters such as root zone depth, soil texture, porosity, water-holding capacity, and water conductivity. Data related to water consumption, monthly rainfall, and irrigation requirements was sourced from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) database.

“Our computer model illustrates the natural process by which plants absorb water from the soil, adapt during periods of water stress, and respond after irrigation or rainfall,” explained Professor Ghosh. He noted that the study’s methodology serves as a real-time advisory tool for effective water management.

The initiative received funding from the Department of Environment, Government of West Bengal, the DST-Swarnajayanti Fellowship Scheme, and other sources. The project underscores the pressing need for innovative agricultural practices in the face of climate change and water scarcity, aiming to enhance the resilience of farmers in vulnerable regions worldwide.