optimal utilization of the chahnimeh water reservoirs in sistan region of iran using goal programming method

the optimal allocation of the chahnimeh water resources among different sectors, viz. domestic, agricultural and environmental consumptions, was determined using the goal programming method in gams, based on the present condition in the area. results showed an increase of 15.4, 44.5 and 230% in allocation of water to domestic, agriculture and environment sectors, respectively, in this method as compared to the present allocation. besides, implementation of the second water transferring line to zahedan city would resultin a 66% increase in the water transferring rate to this city without any change in water supply for domestic sector in zabol city and the surrounding villages. the scenario of 20% reduction in water per capita consumption led to about 5.9 million cubic meters saving in water supply from chahnimeh reservoirs to the domestic sector. according to the projected population growth for 2025 in the study area, water consumption in domestic sector will increase by 15.9%. results showed that the goal programming can be applied as a useful tool to analyze the effect of different scenarios on water demand and supply management and, hence, to allocate water for different sectors in a most appropriate way.