Uncertainties In Climate Change And Human Intervention Affecting Water Resources: A Study Of Kallada River Basin In The State Of Kerala, India

Abstract

In the 21^st century, changing climatic conditions and extensive human activities have become a significant concern. These are associated with multiple uncertainties and have influenced the global water cycle. A lot of existing research is available on the impact of climate change on water resources in developed regions. However, only a few studies have examined the uncertainties of human activities affecting water resources. Thus, this research has yet to receive considerable attention on the impact of climate change and human activities on water resources, particularly in developing countries like India. Therefore, the study aims to analyze the uncertainties in climate change and human intervention affecting water resources. In this study, rainfall, reservoir levels, river discharge, and land use changes in the Kallada River basin from 2000 to 2020 are analyzed by rainfall, reservoir, river discharge, and land use data. The study shows that the years with high discharge, such as 2013, 2016, and 2018, correspond to years of heavy rainfall and reservoir releases, which increase downstream flow and heightened flood risks. Furthermore, human activities influence all aspects of water resources, particularly reduced soil absorption, which exacerbates flood risks during heavy rainfall.