Comprehensive Assessment of Water Management in the Alazani and Iori Basins: Challenges and Strategic Solutions

The research conducted in the Alazani and Iori basins thoroughly assessed the condition of melioration systems, specifically focusing on agricultural water distribution trends and the challenges impacting resource efficiency. Extensive fieldwork uncovered numerous water management issues, including pollution from wastewater, illegal water intakes, blocked channels, and especially the poor condition of the distribution network. This comprehensive assessment, which addresses infrastructure wear, unauthorized usage, and sources of water pollution, has been submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture of Georgia. Key agencies, including the National Environmental Agency, Georgian Melioration, and the Rural Development Agency, have received this final report to guide informed decision-making and support strategic improvements for sustainable water resource management in the Alazani and Iori basins.

An additional objective of the research was to highlight the need for a streamflow prediction system and demonstrate how such a system could benefit agricultural practices. By providing reliable forecasts of water availability, a streamflow prediction system can support more efficient planning and distribution of water resources, helping to mitigate risks associated with seasonal shortages and improve water management for irrigation.