Modeling and Simulation of Urban Water Resources in NUST using WEAP Framework

Abstract

Increased usage and non-efficient management of limited resources has created the risk of facing resource scarcity. Water, the most essential element for survival of life, is on the disastrous verge of scarcity. Due to climate change, urbanization, and mismanagement of water resources, countries like Pakistan are also facing lack of ample water resources to cope with increased water demand. Rapid urbanization obstructs the sustainable utilization of resources due to over-extraction of groundwater resources. So, there arises a need to address the water management challenges of urban areas with effective water resource management. We propose Modeling and Simulation of Urban Water Resource Management using Water Evaluation and Planning system (WEAP) to model an integrated framework for examining and planning of water resources in a typical urban setting in Pakistan. The model uses scenario-based approach to evaluate the future water demand and resources. Analysis of these scenarios helps in drafting the strategies for efficiently managing the resources and achieving water conservation. The model is flexible to user inputs and can be scaled with ease. We demonstrated through our scenario-driven approach and simulations that water shortages can be effectively dealt with using alternative water resources.