Abstract
Hill-torrent floods are becoming a serious hazard owing to the changing climate in the arid region of Pakistan. A large amount of floodwater is lost due to mismanagement, which results in the loss of valuable lives and property downstream every year. In the present study, surface runoff potential was investigated and water harvesting sites were identified for sustainable irrigation in the rod-kohi region of Dera Ismail Khan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province using GIS and RS techniques. Overall 533 water harvesting sites were identified with total runoff potential of over 154 million m3 in the target hill-torrent region using geospatial modeling techniques coupled with ground information. For water harvesting interventions, 26 sites were finally selected over the plain to gentle slopes in unused land below 300 m elevation. Cost-effective earthen water reservoirs could be developed for future runoff water harvesting in this region. An integrated floodwater management approach encompassing containment of environmental degradation, institutional strengthening, and capacity building of the locals will have to be adopted for the effective development of this region in the future.

Shanzeela Farooq, Arshad Ashra, Rukhsana Kausar, Barira Haider. (2020) Exploring Surface Runoff Potential and Water Harvesting Sites in Dera Ismail Khan Rod-kohi Area Using GIS and Remote Sensing, , PROC. OF THE PAS: A; 57, Issue 2.
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