An Integrated Hydrological Model for Water Balance Estimation in the Chirchik River Basin, Northern Uzbekistan

Accurate and detailed information of hydrological balance, and its dynamic nature is needed to develop strategies for sustainable use and management of water resources. In this concern, a fully integrated MIKE SHE model was developed to study the hydrological balance of the Chirchik River Basin, Uzbekistan. Parameters in the model were calibrated and simulated results were validated for the periods 2009-2011 and 2012-2013 in term of two observed hydrological parameters: streamflow rate and groundwater table. After the successful calibration of the parameters, the model produced quantitative results of the water cycle and provided better understanding of the surface and groundwater interactions. The results show that the hydrological balance is strongly dependent on the intensity of agricultural activity within the basin. An actual evapotranspiration was found as a main water loss element among the water transport components due to large-scale agricultural irrigation activities. This corresponds to 77% of the total water budget as an average. A satisfactory water balance simulation error was obtained after adjusting model parameters to basin environment.